What the Cat Thought - Fins 0-2 Wales

Fins 0-2 Wales
By Sam's Cat
September 7 2002

Bluebird to the Bone's very own, Sam's Cat gives his thoughts Wales' superb 2-0 victory against Finland in Helsinki.

Not the greatest display you'll ever see from a Welsh eleven, but one of the most important results for many years for the lads representing Wales.

Supported by a large and vocal army of boisterous and well behaved fans, the boys from the valleys and beyond came away from the Finnish capital with 3 excellent points.

In a dour and rathing boring midfield stalemate of a first half, John Hartson broke the deadlock with a well taken goal following some slick footwork by Ryan Giggs. The Finns looked rattled, the Welsh rattled their rattles!

Half time away from home and one nil up! Marvellous.

The second half could not be as bad as the first half in terms of quality of entertainment, and it wasn't. Wales held out as the Finns piled on the pressure, and with the home side becoming increasingly frustrated a erb goal from Spurs' midfielder Simon Davies rifled in a shot following good work from the Manchester United maestro Giggs once again.

It was an overall performance of great significance and a massive boost to confidence, Cardiff City's Danny Gabbidon performed exceptionally well. Thank heaven the transfer window is shut!! Why can't he play like this for the Bluebirds!

Earnie did not get a game, but who cares - this was a great result. Wales hung on with Finland hitting the post and had shots cleared off the line during the last 15 minutes. Wales top their group and even the price of beer in the local bars could not depress the jubilant Welsh fans who are still singing in the city now!