However, the Italians dominated the game and deservedly won through goals from Bernardo Corradi (30) and Marco Delvecchio (66).

BBC: NI beaten by Italy

Another possible target for Whyte and the North West organisers is Italian Alessio Corradi, an Italian and former World Supersport frontrunner.

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It took 22 minutes for City to even manage an attempt on goal, and even that was an ugly effort well wide by Bernardo Corradi.

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Italy had almost grabbed the lead after 26 minutes when Fabio Grosso found Corradi with a cross from the left but the header went wide.

BBC: NI beaten by Italy

And to round off City's misery striker Corradi, who had already been booked, was sent off by referee Graham Poll after a ridiculous and unnecessary dive.

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Four minutes later came that Italian opener when defender Massimo Oddo chipped in a low cross from the right which was met by Lazio striker Corradi who swept the ball home.

BBC: NI beaten by Italy