Ray & Artell play full 90 for their respective nations
It was sad news for George Ray in Helsinki as a late goal for Finland U21’s rescued the hosts a 2-2 draw that ended Wales U21’s hopes of qualifying for the Euro 2015 Finals.Ray played the full match and saw the Fins take an early lead, before hope was restored midway through the second half with two quick-fire goals from Wes Burns and Lee Evans to put the Welsh in front. On course for a vital three points, Tim Vayrynen struck a hammer-blow on 87 minutes to ensure it ended all-square.
Ray now travels to Lithuania for the final match of qualification on Tuesday.
Crewe Alexandra Academy Director and current Bala Town player Dave Artell made his, and his countries, competitive international debut for Gibraltar as they endured a torrid time at the hands of a Poland side featuring Bayern Munich superstar Robert Lewandowski.
The Gibraltar outfit, with Artell at the heart of the back four, defended resolutely and stoutly in the opening 45 and trailed by just a single goal at the break. However, Poland came out all guns blazing in the second period with Lewandowski scoring four as the game ended 7-0.
Liam Nolan and Marcus Haber will both also be in action on Tuesday respectively as Northern Ireland U21’s take on Serbia U21’s and Canada take on Jamaica in Toronto.