Bratu boosts Romania

Lithuania 0-1 Romania
A goal from Florin Bratu proved enough for Romania to earn a 1-0 win away to Lithuania in tonight's international friendly in Kaunas.

Close-range finish
The FC Rapid Bucuresti striker scored the only goal of the game three minutes past the hour, escaping the attentions of the Lithuania defence and steering his shot past goalkeeper Gintaras Stauce from close range. Romania were always in control after taking the lead, and rarely looked like letting their narrow advantage slip.

Diving save
Both sides created a number of goalscoring opportunities in an open game. Dmitrijus Guscinas – a 24th-minute substitute for Robertas Poskus – went close to giving the home side the lead six minutes before half-time, forcing Romania goalkeeper Bogdan Lobont into a sprawling save.

Mixed results
Romania coach Anghel Iordanescu will be hoping the win boosts his side, who currently lie in third place in UEFA EURO 2004™ Group 2. Romania have six points from their four matches played so far, having won two and lost two, including a 7-0 away success in Luxembourg and a 5-2 reverse at home to Denmark. They next face Bosnia-Herzegovina in Craiova on 7 June, having already defeated the same opponents 3-0 away from home.

Lithuania lie second
In contrast, Lithuania are currently second in Group 5, level on points with leaders Germany, although they have played two games more, and above Scotland, who they defeated 1-0 on 2 April, on goal difference. Lithuania's five games have brought them seven points. They next face Iceland on 11 June in Kaunas.