HELSINKI, Sept 7 (Reuters) - Wales pulled off an impressive
2-0 win over Finland in their opening European championship
group nine qualifying match on Saturday thanks to goals from
striker John Hartson and midfielder Simon Davies.
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Mika Nurmela takes on Gary Speed
(JussiNukari/Empics) |
The result of a rough and tumble match took Wales's unbeaten
run to six games, raising expectations that Mark Hughes's team
could qualify for the 2004 finals in Portugal.
Hartson's goal came against the run of play after 31 minutes
when he swooped on a loose ball to fire a low shot into the net
from six metres.
Finland had the edge in midfield, with captain Jari Litmanen
taking command and having a few solid efforts, but the hosts
lacked the creativity of injured striker Mikael Forssell.
Wales sealed victory in the 73rd minute when Ryan Giggs
crossed the ball into the area for Davies to score from 10
metres.
Wales manager Mark Hughes hailed his side after watching them get off to a superb start with victory in Finland.
Hughes said: 'I can sense that the players believe that this is the start of something special.
'It has been a long process over the last two years to get to this stage, but the players have come out the other side with great belief and desire.
'When I took over they were weak mentally, but not now. They can
withstand pressure and look a stronger side totally.
'It is a great dressing room to work with. It is full of strong
characters, strong men who have suffered bitter disappointments and
experiences in the past. Now we hope that we can give them something
better.
'Maybe prior to this game people felt we were an easy team, but
now we have surprised a lot of people.'
- REPORTS - null
