Wales 2 - Austria 1

Nils Lloyd-Penny was the hero as Wales gained promotion to the A division for the first time at this level with a come from behind victory against hosts Austria. Wales trailed at half time despite dominating possession from one of the Austrians only threatening attacks. All players were focused and determined to succeed where other teams had failed and Wales started the game with purpose, moving the ball well across the park. It was a surprise then when Austria nipped in and scored a neat goal against the run of play. Despite this setback and forcing a number of clear chances, Wales did not lose heart and continued to press as the half progressed. Wales also suffered a yellow card against Tim Fuller on the stroke of half time and had to start the second half with ten men.

Wales comfortably held the Austrians while reduced to ten men and with ten minutes gone, Wales were level following their first penalty corner of the second half, Ben Carless powering home a loose ball following the initial flick. It was all Wales now as wave upon wave of attacks rained on the Austrians and it only seemed a matter of time before Wales capitalised on their possession and took the lead. However, Austria regained some composure and caused some nervy moments but the Welsh defence led by Bond and Trem held firm and as the game entered the final 10 minutes, the game flowed from end to end. Another Welsh penalty corner saw the ball squirt to Lloyd-Penny who drilled the ball into the goal from 5 yards out prompting huge celebrations on the Welsh bench and among their loyal supporters. A tense final few moments ensued as Austria pressed and Wales were reduced to ten again as Owain Dolan-GRay was punished for a dangerous tackle. However, as the ball soared over the benches following a Mike Shaw clearance, the hooter sounded and Wales celebrated joyously their victory.

THis was Wales's best performance of the tournament as they held onto possession well, created good chances that on another day would have seen the team win comfortably and above all, showed the fight that characterises this set of players. This was also a win that made up for past failures in semi finals from U16, U18 and, for some, senior level. It was fitting then that Lloyd-Penny scored the winning goal. Wales now face Scotland in the gold medal match tomorrow. More importantly, the result sees Wales promoted to the A division for 2012 where they will face Spain, Germany, Holland and their fiercest rivals, England.

Cymru am byth!