Giggs thrilled as Wales put on great show for victory
WalesbossRyanGiggsclaimed that “not many teams could have lived with us tonight” after his players crushed Nations League opponents the Republic of Ireland.
Tom Lawrence, Gareth Bale - with his 30th goal for Wales - Aaron Ramsey and Connor Roberts were on target before Republic substitute Shaun Williams provided some cheer for the visitors in a 4-1 defeat at Cardiff City Stadium.
The victory might not have erased the pain of Wales’ World Cup elimination last October when the Republic won 1-0 at the same venue.
But the manner of the performance, with talented youngsters Ethan Ampadu and David Brooks excelling on their first competitive starts and Bale at his brilliant best, gave a tantalising glimpse of the bright future that could lie ahead under Giggs.
“I talked about expressing themselves and trusting each other, and that’s what I got,” Giggs said.
“We could have scored more, but to get four in any game is special.
“Credit to ourselves, not many teams could have lived with us tonight. I think we’d have given anyone a game.
“The young lads came in and did well, but I feel we have got 30 players who can be in the first XI. I never had that when I played for Wales.”
Asked about 17-year-old Ampadu’s display, Giggs added: “Ethan is a talent, but not only as a player, but as a person. He is so measured and mature and takes it all in his stride. I am really pleased for him.”
Wales now face a fullstrength Denmark side in Aarhus on Sunday.