Ten-man Switzerland out after Wales defeat

Wales scored twice after the break to secure their second victory in UEFA EURO 2012 qualifying Group G and end the play-off hopes of Switzerland, who finished the game with ten men.

After a goalless first half, the game sprung into life ten minutes after the break when Reto Ziegler received his marching orders. Aaron Ramsey opened the scoring from the penalty spot before Gareth Bale sealed victory for the hosts with 19 minutes remaining. As Montenegro then equalised late to draw with group winners England, second place is now out of Switzerland's reach.

Switzerland began the match full of attacking intent, although for all their early dominance they were unable to fashion any clear-cut chances. It was the hosts who had the first attempt on target, Ramsey firing straight at Diego Benaglio from the edge of the penalty area.

Wales grew into the contest and came close to taking the lead through Steve Morison, who held off the attentions of Steve von Bergen only to see his strike well saved by the Swiss No1. The visitors always carried a goal threat but long-range strikes from Gökhan Inler and Eren Derdiyok were all they had to show for their efforts in the first half.

Wales came out firing after the break and the game turned in their favour on 55 minutes when Ziegler saw red for a foul on Chris Gunter. Gary Speed's men were awarded a penalty five minutes later when Timm Klose felled Gunter and Ramsey stepped up to give Wales the lead.

Buoyed by their goal and the numerical advantage, Wales dictated possession and doubled their lead with 19 minutes remaining. Bale latched on to Morison's perfectly weighted through ball and finished coolly into the bottom left-hand corner. Switzerland end their campaign at home to Montenegro on Tuesday, when Wales tackle Bulgaria.