WALES under-19s have qualified for the Elite Round in 2014 after completing a resuscitation of their qualifying campaign, writes Michael Pearlman.
The youngsters had a good day yesterday, beating Moldova 6-0 in Tbilisi, Georgia in their final Group 11 UEFA qualifying contest.
Wales were relying on other results but for once things went their way, Georgia’s 2-1 triumph over Holland just enough for the Welsh who required a six goal swing in results to topple the Dutch.
So Wales had to win by six goals, as it transpired and they clinched that unlikely scenario in the 89th minute with sub Chike Kandi (Chelsea) firing home the all-important goal.
Earlier in the group Wales had lost 5-1 to Georgia in the opening game but then battled to a 0-0 draw with Holland that as it transpires, has proved decisive.
It is a great boost for manager Geraint Williams and his squad. The Under 17's have also progressed to the Elite Round in their competition, which included a 5-5 draw with Hungary after being 5-2 down with less than 30 minutes to play.
Cardiff City’s Declan John, now a full international, skippered the side.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here