Wales player ratings vs Montenegro: ‘Magical’ 10 as Bellamy gets first win

Craig Bellamy sealed his first win as Wales boss as his side held on in tricky conditions to earn a 2-1 away win against Montenegro in the UEFA Nations League.

It was the dream start as Kieffer Moore struck after just 40 seconds before a stunning long range strike from Harry Wilson doubled their lead a minute later. A second half goal from Driton Camaj made for a nervy end, but Cymru held on for all three points.

The win marks the first time Wales have managed to win an away fixture against Montenegro, with them now sitting second in their Nations League group with four points, behind leaders Türkiye on goal difference.

Here is a look at the player ratings from the soaking wet night in Niksic.

Wales player ratings vs Montenegro

Karl Darlow – 7

Darlow earned his first senior cap for Wales as he took the reigns from Danny Ward. He done well with his distribution and made some very important saves including a very good double save to deny the hosts.

Connor Roberts – 4

It was a difficult night for the Burnley man as he struggled up against the pace of Nikola Krstovic. He was substituted late in the first half with a slight injury.

Joe Rodon – 6

Rodon was resolute at the back as usual, with a commanding presence showing leadership qualities amongst his side. He was caught out for the goal but its hard to be too critical with the difficult conditions.

Ben Davies – 8

The skipper was a rock at the back for Wales as he as been on so many occasions over the years. He made a vital goal line clearance, not for the first time in a Wales shirt.

Chris Mepham – 6

It was Mepham’s first game back since suspension and he had a solid night at the back. He made some big clearances at the end of the game to preserve the lead.

Neco Williams – 8

Williams began in a more advanced role where he looked to cause issues before moving back to defence following the Roberts injury. He was defensively solid, putting his body on the line and was a workhorse covering every blade of grass.

Ethan Ampadu – 6

Ampadu gave away possession in difficult conditions and struggled at times with Jovetic dropping into midfield. He worked hard defensively when Wales were under pressure and helped the side get over the line.

Ollie Cooper – 6

Cooper made his first start for Wales partnering Ampadu in midfield. He struggled with the difficult conditions early on conceding possession but worked tirelessly to regain the ball. He seems to be a player Bellamy likes and has jumped up the pecking order in the squad.

Lewis Koumas – 5

A first start for the youngster following on from his cameo on Friday night. He worked hard off the ball constantly chasing down opposition defenders but didn’t have many opportunities to show his quality on the ball.

Harry Wilson – 10

When Wilson is on form he really is Magical. His hard work led to the opening goal before a sensational strike ended up being the game winner. You can see he’s enjoying the Bellamy system and could play a huge role going forward.

Kieffer Moore – 9

Moore got his start following his cameo on Friday night. He had the perfect start opening the scoring within 40 seconds with a very well taken finish, and his physical presence caused issues for the Montenegro defence.

Brennan Johnson – 5

An early substitution for Wales replacing Connor Roberts. He failed to offer much going forward for Wales as the killer instinct is still yet to be seen in the national side.

Sorba Thomas – 7

A second half substitute for Wales. He was a shining light against Türkiye and gave a good account of himself again with his appearance here, constantly hassling the opposition and recovering the ball. He used his pace and strength to relieve pressure in vital moments.

Jordan James – 6

Replaced Ollie Cooper in the second half for Wales. He did a much better job with his ball carrying that really helped relieve pressure and get Wales higher up the field.

Aaron Ramsey – 5

Ramsey entered the field in the final ten minutes and used his experience to help get his side over the line, being calm in possession and looking after the ball well.

Mark Harris – 5

Harris was a late change for Wales and helped to see out the remainder of the game applying pressure on the opposition defence.

(Featured image: Lewis Mitchell.)