Spain denied by Kilijona

Lithuania made an impressive start to their UEFA European Under-19 second qualifying round campaign as they held Group 1 hosts Spain to a goalless draw.

Spain frustrated
More than 1,200 fans turned up hoping to see the favourites triumph, and they had several good first-half chances, not least a shot just past the far post from Spanish captain Roberto Sold. However, Lithuania kept them out and continued to frustrate the home side in the second period.

Fine save
Substitute Joan Tomas shot against the crossbar in the 55th minute and just after the hour the same played was denied by Lithuanian goalkeeper Sarunas Kilijona, later elected man of the match.

'Disappointing result'
"It is a very disappointing result for us," Spain coach Armando Ufarte said. "We did not play well, and the Lithuanian team made it difficult for us by playing rather defensively, but fairly. We are looking forward to the next matches and hope for better results against Hungary and the Netherlands."

'Proud of my players'
On Saturday Spain meet the Netherlands, who today lost 1-0 to Hungary, Lithuania's next opponents. Lithuania coach Neoras Mindaugas was happy with the way his side handled the warm conditions, saying: "We are not used to playing in heat like this. We are very happy with the result, and I am very proud of my players. I am looking forward to the coming matches."