DAN’S THE MAN AS WALES SNEAK WIN
DANIEL JAMES gave Wales a huge early boost in their bid to qualify for their first World Cup since 1958 as his late header, the first of his career, settled a bad-tempered clash with the Czech republic. After Czech forward Patrik Schick and Wales defender Connor roberts had both been sent off, James guided in Gareth Bale’s brilliant cross to give rob Page’s men a vital three points. ‘it’s a massive result,’ said James. ‘he put in a brilliant ball and thankfully i could finish it off.’ the Czechs decided not to take the knee, pointing instead to the UEFA ‘respect’ logo emblazoned on their sleeves as their opponents all knelt. Slavia Prague’s ondrej Kudela was included, despite being accused by rangers player Glen Kamara of racial abuse during a Europa League tie at ibrox this month. Slavia denied the ‘disgusting accusation’ of racism. over the weekend, Wales pair rabbi Matondo and Ben Cabango were racially abused on social media. Separately, Matondo was sent home from training camp along with hal robson-Kanu and tyler roberts for breaking team protocols. the Czechs, in England’s Euro 2020 group, began brightly. Jakub Jankto fired narrowly wide twice, but Wales missed the best chance of the first half in the 36th minute. Neco Williams’ cross was perfect for Bale but the captain mishit his closerange volley and tomas Vaclik pushed it over. Bale has not scored for Wales since october 2019. At the start of the second half Schick was shown the red card for shoving roberts in the face at a free-kick. James Lawrence had to produce a sliding challenge to deny Lukas Provod after the winger had rounded danny Ward. roberts was on thin ice after an earlier booking and received another yellow in the 77th minute when his swinging arm connected with tomas Soucek’s cheek. Wales struck the decisive blow when Bale found space and sent over a glorious ball where James was waiting to head it beyond Vaclik and a late Joe rodon block sealed victory.