UEFA REGIONS CUP LATEST

Coast win first ever point for Wales!!

The North Wales Coast FA team representing Wales for the first time, won the first ever Welsh point in the UEFA Regions Cup in Macedonia this week at the country's third time of asking. With this being a totally new experience, different style of football and played in 40 degree heat at kick off, it was always going to be a big ask to bring back any points but the Welsh were really a lucky break from perhaps taking 5 from the three games played in the group against the hosts, Sweden and last time semi finalists N. Ireland. The opening game saw the Welsh take on Macedonia on their own ground, match their quality and movement, create chances and can really be aggrieved not to take at least a point out of the match. The gamesmanship of the hosts was an eye opener and a learning curve for Wales who despite this, nearly came up with the goods. The second game saw a brilliant, experienced Northern Ireland select team deservedly beat the Welsh 2-1, albeit through a debatable penalty with James Hay scoring for Wales to bring us level. However the tier 2 team, which included 2 lads about to go professional, were made to work the whole game and indeed a late Welsh free kick almost saw them steal a point. With injuries and suspension now playing a factor, the Welsh team gave everything in the final game against Sweden to win that elusive point and after a James Harper opener and a late Swedish equalizer, the lads hung on and did the job. Overall a fantastic effort both on and off the pitch from the players who've never before experienced European tournament football. They did themselves proud in this once in a lifetime oppertunity.

Report from Chris Morrell - Squad Team Manager.