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Finland and Malta draw blank in qualifying opener

Finland 0-0 Malta
The hosts were on top throughout without being able to make the breakthrough as the teams started qualifying Group 2 with a point.

Finland were the more likely scorers in Valkeakoski
Finland were the more likely scorers in Valkeakoski ©Getty Images

Finland and Malta started their 2013 UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifying campaigns with a goalless draw in Valkeakoski.

In a Group 2 match where the visitors afforded their opponents precious little space, particularly in defence, Teemu Pukki was first to threaten for Finland with a shot from distance which narrowly cleared the crossbar.

The only save of note from either goalkeeper arrived with 20 minutes remaining when Malta's Steve Sultana kept out Petteri Forsell's fierce effort, although Lauri Dalla Valle then headed wide from Forsell's corner.

Malta visit Lithuania on Tuesday while Finland are not next in action until 10 August, when they welcome Slovenia.