Finland keep dream alive
Saturday, October 2, 2004
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Finland 1-1 Sweden Finland drew to pip Scotland to the final play-off place in front of a record 2,870 fans.
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By Mikael Erävuori
Finland secured the final UEFA European Women's Championship play-off berth as they came from behind to draw with Group 1 winners Sweden in front 2,870 fans.
Point denies Scotland
Saturday's visitors had long secured automatic qualification for next summer's final tournament in England, and although Finland did not pick up the win they needed to overtake Italy and secure a play-off berth as runners-up, the point means they have one of the two best third-placed records across the four groups, pipping Scotland into Tuesday's draw.
Sweden ahead
Sweden beat Finland 2-1 in their previous group meeting, and took control from the start. They were ahead on 24 minutes when a corner eluded Finland goalkeeper Satu Kunnas, and Sana Thunebro took full advantage from close range.
Kackur reward
However, Sweden did not add to their lead and after the break Finland, who could not afford to lose by more than two goals, began to press. They were rewarded 20 minutes from time as Jessica Julin hit the crossbar from 30 metres and Heidi Kackur turned the ball in.
Coach 'very happy'
With either Norway or Russia awaiting Finland in their two-legged play-off, coach Michael Käld said: "We played against one of the best teams in the world. The only problem we had was with the final passes - we could not get inside the box as much as we wanted. I am very happy with the result, though."
