Riise wrecks Italian run
Friday, June 3, 2005
Article summary
Norway 1-0 Italy Bjørn Helge Riise's late winner destroys the holders' 100 per cent record.
Article body
By Eivind Aarre
A Bjørn Helge Riise goal on 78 minutes ensured UEFA European Under-21 Championship title-holders Italy saw their perfect record in qualifying Group 5 disappeared as Norway strengthened their hold on the second play-off place.
Riise winner
Norway, who had lost their opening fixture in this group 2-0 in Italy, were the better team in a match low on chances. Riise - brother of Liverpool winger John Arne Riise - took his chance following a cross from the right by Morten Morisbak Skjønsberg to prod the ball in.
'Bonus points'
Italy, whose lead over Norway is now five points, go to Scotland on 2 September. Today's victors visit Slovenia the same day, and coach Hallvar Thoresen said: "The boys worked really hard, and got their reward. I regard these three points as bonus points, for I can't see Italy dropping many more points."
