Russia ease into finals
Saturday, April 30, 2005
Article summary
Group 4 review: Russia secured their passage after victory in an all-or-nothing encounter against Austria.
Article body
Russia secured a place in the 2005 UEFA European Women's Under-19 Championship after capping an impressive Group 4 campaign with a 3-1 win against Austria in an all-or-nothing encounter at the Alpenstadion Gloggnitz.
Russian advantage
The teams started the match locked at the section summit after recording six points from their opening two matches against Romania and Serbia and Montenegro. The Russians, semi-finalists last season, had a slight advantage with a far superior goal difference that meant that a draw would suffice but in the end they did not need it as they eased to victory.
Hanschitz consolation
Valentin Grishin’s side were leading 2-0 at half-time and further extended their advantage in the second half before Marlies Hanschitz struck a consolation with just four minutes remaining. It was the first goal Russia have conceded in six qualifying matches, a period in which they have racked up 33 at the other end, and they are bound to be a force at the finals in Hungary in July.
