Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
Wales fight on for Gary
WALES players and fans paused for a poignant minute’s silence yesterday in memory of the legendary Gary Speed as they made final preparations for the biggest game in their history.
Former Wales boss Speed took his life 11 years ago yesterday and is still remembered in song and on flags by the Red Wall support in Qatar.
Wales’ official
Twitter account also shared a touching video montage of
Speed, which included manager
Rob Page dedicating their first
World Cup campaign since 1958 to the former Leeds, Newcastle and Everton midfielder.
Tomorrow, Page’s men will try to get out of the group stages by beating England – a task which has been dubbed “mission impossible” after Friday’s 2-0 defeat to Iran.
One of the fans roaring the side on will be Matthew Roberts, 57, from Splott, Cardiff. He said: “We’ve all had a great weekend despite the disappointment of Friday’s result. We will sing and cheer the boys on.
“Even if we are knocked out, I’m sure it won’t be that long until we reach our next finals.”
Welsh midfielder Joe Allen said the side could still qualify but admitted that it will be very difficult.
The Swansea City man said: “It’s a tough task, it’s always uncomfortable when it’s not in your hands and you’re relying on certain things to unfold.
“But while there’s still a chance it’s really simple for us.
“We’re fully motivated, fully incentivised into throwing absolutely everything into getting the win.”
Manager Page agreed to loved ones coming to see the squad at their team hotel in Doha, ahead of the game in Al Rayyan tomorrow evening.