Josh Magennis was 'desperate' for Northern Ireland treble, says Steven Davis

Steven Davis revealed why he denied Josh Magennis the chance of a hat-trick in Northern Ireland's win over San Marino on Friday.

Having already scored twice, Magennis sensed an opportunity for a third when Alex Gasperoni handled in the area.

However, despite some boos from the travelling fans, Northern Ireland captain Davis stepped up to score the penalty.

"I asked to take the penalty, but he's the captain and leader of the team and what he says goes when Michael [O'Neill, manager] is not around," Magennis told Sky Sports.

"It would have been nice to get the hat-trick, but he's the man so I can't really be arguing. As long as we won, I'm happy for him to get his goal because he deserved it. He's the catalyst for this team."

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Davis hailed the performance of Magennis and admitted he was never going to give up the chance of an international goal.

"He was a real threat for us all night and was rewarded with two goals," said Davis. "He was obviously desperate for the penalty to get his hat-trick, but I politely told him to go away."

The win sees Northern Ireland take a firm grip on a top-two place in World Cup Qualifying Group C.

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If they avoid defeat against Czech Republic at Windsor Park on Monday they will be assured of finishing at least second in the group.

"The minimum we want is the play-offs and that's the biggest cherry we have," said Magennis. "We came into the campaign on the back of the Euros and everyone was asking if we were a one-trick pony and whether we could do it again.

"But we're a great bunch of lads and with the quality we have we know how to play.

"Monday is going to be massive, especially in front of our fans at Windsor Park. It's going to be rocking."

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