Czechs claim crucial win

The Czech Republic secured a place in the play-offs for the final tournament thanks to a vital 2-0 UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifying win in Austria.

Crucial win
Two successive defeats had jeopardized the Czech's chances of finishing at the top of Group 3 but goals from midfield player Martin Kolar and striker Vaclav Sverkos ensured that Belarus, who had led the section with 18 points, were denied top position because of the Czech Republic's superior record in matches between the two sides. Austria finish the section in third place on eleven points

Goalkeeping heroics
Austria, however, did not make it easy for the away team and forced Reggina Calcio goalkeeper Martin Lejsal, in only his second start for the U21s, to produce a series of impressive saves in the opening exchanges.

Kolar penalty
His counterpart, Hans-Peter Berger, was less successful in the home goal as he brought down Sverkos in the box three minutes before the break, and Kolar made no mistake from the penalty spot.

Sverkos decisive
Lejsal was again at the thick of the action after the interval, parrying a succession of shots from Roman Kienast. However, the away side wrapped up the points 12 minutes from time when Sverkos tucked away a left-wing cross from substitute Filip Trojan, sealing an all-important victory. The final scoreline could have been more emphatic, only for Sverkos to miss a penalty in the closing stages.