The appointment of Craig Bellamy has provided a renewed feeling of optimism and opportunity in Wales, where a different sort of national team is starting to come together. Bellamy’s more progressive style has brought some encouraging early results, including this victory over an admittedly poor Montenegro side.
Bellamy’s intention is to move on from the defensive tactics of Rob Page and play more aggressive, technical football. So far, so good: he is the first Wales manager to go without defeat in his first four matches in charge.
Playmaker Harry Wilson, especially, appears to be thriving in the new system. Wilson has been given the responsibility to drive Wales forward, to make things happen in attack, and his penalty here secured the three points for Bellamy’s side.
Wilson’s form pre-dates Bellamy’s arrival — he has now been involved in eight goals in his past nine Wales games — but under the new coach he increasingly has the look of a leader for his country.
Wales still lack consistency, though, and they faded after the break here with a much-changed side. Thankfully, the fine work of Wilson in the first half ensured they were in a dominant position throughout the patchy second period.
It was clear from within a few minutes of action that Wilson was in the mood to create havoc. Playing in an advanced midfield role, the 27-year-old was central to all of the home side’s best moments.
There was the gorgeous cross for Wes Burns, who headed wide at the back post. Then the chipped pass to Liam Cullen, who lifted his effort over the bar. Wilson also went close with his right foot, after a surging run, before scoring from the penalty spot with his left.
Typically of the first half, it was Wilson who had won the penalty. Chopping back onto his right, he sent two Montenegro defenders in the wrong direction before collapsing to the turf under Vladimir Jovovic’s challenge. It was hardly the most violent of fouls, but it was enough to convince the referee to point to the spot.