Moore goal caps superb evening for hero Gunter

WALES celebrated Chris Gunter’s 100th cap with a hardfought victory over Mexican opponents ranked ninth in the world.

Kieffer Moore’s close-range 11th-minute winner proved the difference on a night when Robert Page changed his entire side from the defeat to Belgium in midweek.

Chances were few and far between for most of the evening, although as was the case in Belgium, there were some encouraging positives for Page to take from this showing.

Capping off Gunter’s big night with a win against a very strong Mexico side for one.

Gunter said: “It was enjoyable in parts, it was a tough game.

“It was a special night for me and with a clean sheet and a victory. It’s one I can look back on with a lot of pride.

“The team were good all over the pitch and it was a perfect evening for me.

“The amount of support and nice messages I’ve had has been incredible.

“It won’t sink in for a long time and I don’t think there’s a happier man in the world right now.”

Moore’s cheeky early tap-in was enough to give Wales their first-ever victory over the Mexicans as Page’s experimental line-up impressed.

Ben Cabango may have breathed a sigh of relief during the opening few minutes after appearing to bundle over Hirving Lozano in the box, although referee Ian McNabb showed little interest in giving in to some passionate Mexican appeals for a penalty.

Undeterred, Wales responded brilliantly, following up their sensational goal against the Belgians on Wednesday with another strike of real quality.

Jonny Williams, playing in the unfamiliar role of right wing-back, was the beneficiary of some lovely build-up play from the lively Matt Smith and Rabbi Matondo on the right, with Tyler Roberts slipping the Cardiff man into the box before he pulled back a wonderful low ball for the onrushing Moore, who cheekily flicked home.

He was only a whisker away from doubling his tally midway through the first half, but couldn’t connect with Matondo’s near-post cross.

Wayne Hennessey produced a fine save to deny Hirving Lozano, while Orbelin Pineda blazed a low drive just wide and Jesus Corona missed a late chance.