Wales player ratings v Iceland: Bromley and Swindon Town stars shine with 9/10s
Wales players celebrate scoring against Iceland. (Credit: FAW Photography)
Wales recorded an impressive 2-1 win away to Iceland to move within one point of securing a playoff spot for the European U21 Championships.
After a goalless first half, Joel Cotterill bagged himself a brace, and while a stoppage-time Icelandic goal did cause some nerves, Wales held on to pick up a vital three points.
Here is how we rate the performances of every player who appeared on the pitch in Reykjavik.
Wales player ratings v Iceland Under-21s
Ed Beach – 6
For much of the 90 minutes, the Chelsea keeper, now on loan at Crawley Town, didn’t have much to do. However, when Iceland rallied towards the end, Beach was commanding at corners and set pieces and really calmed situations down.
Fin Stevens – 7
Yet another solid performance from the captain. Had success in the first half down the right, while in the second, was comfortable sitting in and not allowing the Icelandic wingers to get past him.
Luca Hoole – 7
In really blustery conditions, it would be easy for defenders to lose track of the ball, but Hoole read every situation well and was able to contest every aerial ball well.
Joe Low – 7
Another one of the centre backs who did very well. From set pieces, Low was always available to offer a nod down or a header on goal, and defensively, the Wycombe man stuck to his tasks well.
Matt Baker – 7
Same as the other two who were marshalling the back line. Iceland possess a lot of attacking talent, who have a proven goal scoring record in qualifying, but the likes of Baker kept them at bay tremendously.
Zac Ashworth – 7
Ashworth was targeted at times by Iceland, but every time he got up and carried on dominating down the left. He linked up well with Thomas and Cotterill down the wing and was a real asset to Wales’ attacking endeavours.
Eli King – 8
King was outstanding in the midfield. At times, it felt like he was an octopus, as he spread himself so well to take balls away from the midfield before spraying the ball up field to start attacks.
Charlie Savage – 6
Savage at times found it difficult to get into the game. He didn’t feel as energetic as King, but he also did his defensive jobs well. His set pieces weren’t the best, but the wind certainly didn’t help him with that.
Joel Colwill – 7
Colwill has started the season with Cheltenham Town on fire, and he looked impressive in the Icelandic capital. Wales didn’t utilise his wing as much, but he did well to join attacks and find clever little passes to others. Subbed off 88th minute.
Joel Cotterill – 9
At times, it looked like it wasn’t going to be Cotterill’s night, but when he did score, he took both goals well. Two very different goals but strikes that showcased Cotterill’s determination and his never say die attitude. Subbed off 90th minute.
Josh Thomas – 9
While Cotterill will take the credit for the goals, none of them would be possible without Thomas’ work. The Bromley striker was tenacious in winning the ball back, willing to run in behind and down the channels, and showed a great deal of finesse in the final third. Subbed off 90th minute.
Chris Popov – N/A
Subbed on 88th minute. Wasn’t on long enough to make an impact.
Cian Ashford – N/A
Subbed on 90th minute. Wasn’t on long enough to make an impact.
Oli Hammond – N/A
Subbed on 90th minute. Wasn’t on long enough to make an impact.
