Chris Coleman praises players after win puts them top of group

20 June 2016 22:23

Wales manager Chris Coleman paid tribute to the industry of his side following their 3-0 victory over Russia which saw them finish top of Group B.

Goals from Aaron Ramsey, Neil Taylor and Gareth Bale helped Coleman's side to an emphatic victory on an unforgettable night for Welsh football.

Speaking to ITV4, Coleman said: "We will savour it.

"The players were brave tonight, they did everything they are capable of on the ball, which we did not do against England.

"I said there was more to come from this group of players, they are on the way to something else, I am just glad we are on it with them.

"We will have to see who we get next, we will respect everyone, but we have nothing to fear."

Real Madrid star Bale lauded Wales' performance. He said: "We knew everything was on this game, it was in our own hands, and we said to go out there and have no regrets.

"The performance was probably the best I have been involved in, and what a support.

"To top the group, what more can you ask? The fans here, the fans at home, we want to thank them very much. It is a dream for all of us.

"We said we did not come here to just make up the numbers, we wanted to put a real effort in and to win the group, you can't do any more than that, so now we will look forwards to whomever we get next."

Ramsey felt Wales had laid down a marker with their demolition of Russia.

"We wanted to make a statement, putting Welsh football on the map, to show what we are capable of doing and I think we have done that," the Arsenal midfielder said.

"We have shown that we are a good defensive team, but also what a good team we are in possession as well. We created loads of opportunities and can be proud of what we have achieved so far."

Source: PA