Thursday Sep 29 2005 20:30
Simon Davies' early strike has given Wales a valuable 1-0 half-time lead in their Euro 2004 Group Nine qualifier against Finland in the Millennium Stadium.
After the 4-0 drubbing in Italy on Saturday, the Welsh made the best possible start when John Hartson nodded the ball down to Davies, and the Spurs star drove his shot home from the edge of the penalty area.
After the early goal Finland hit back with Mikael Forssell looking particularly lively.
Crystal Palace star Aki Riihilahti then bent an effort just over the bar as the Finns threatened to equalise.
Finland were convinced they should have had a penalty on the half-hour when Jason Koumas appeared to handle the ball but the referee waved away their vehement appeals.
Eight minutes before the interval Ryan Giggs' free-kick forced Antti Niemi to make a smart save as the scoreline remained 1-0 at the interval.
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