SAINTS midfielder Steven Davis believes Northern Ireland have created memories that will last a lifetime after finishing their triumphant Euro 2016 campaign as group winners.

Michael O'Neill's side were already assured of a trip to France next summer and needed just a point in Finland to finish above Romania in Group F.

They were on course for all three when Craig Cathcart's first-half header put them in front, but the hosts levelled three minutes from time to salvage a 1-1 draw.

That scarcely registered a response from the 2,200 travelling fans, who sang, danced and toasted their team for the full 90 minutes and beyond.

Northern Ireland became the first ever side to win a European qualifying group having been seeded fifth and the significance of their achievement is not lost on their captain, Davis.

''We'll never forget the times we've had in this campaign, or the bond we've had as a squad,'' he said.

''One of the biggest things in this group is the togetherness and team spirit.

''It's been an incredible week for everyone and one we will cherish forever.

''Seeing the fans around the hotel, you can only imagine what they've been feeling and what the players have been feeling.

''I can't speak highly enough of the fans, I've said so many times the edge they give us. It will be a spectacle in France to see what they bring with them and they fully deserve to enjoy it too as it's been tough to watch us at times.''