Wales start with a win
Tuesday, March 9, 2004
Article summary
Israel 0-1 Wales Ian Rush's Wales Under-17 side open their second-round campaign with a victory.
Article body
Ian Rush's Wales Under-17 side made the best possible start to their UEFA European Under-17 Championship Group 4 campaign by securing a hard-earned 1-0 victory against Israel.
Only goal
The only goal of the game came after 22 minutes and was hit by Cardiff City FC forward Jamal Easter. In the second half Wales had Rhys Powell of Bolton Wanderers FC sent off for a second bookable offence, but hung on to win.
Top country qualifies
With two games remaining for each team, the Welsh are in second place, behind Portugal on goal difference. The two countries meet on Wednesday when Greece take on Israel. The country on top of the group after the third set of games on Friday will qualify for the eight-team final tournament this summer in France.
