Sky pundit lauds Ben Davies after heroic tackle in Wales win

Dave Edwards labelled one tackle from Ben Davies ‘heroic’ as the Tottenham star helped Wales book their ticket to the World Cup with a dramatic win over Ukraine, in comments broadcast on Sky Sports (5/6; 18:19).

Rob Page’s men will be in Qatar after an incredibly emotional day in Cardiff. Gareth Bale’s free-kick was deflected into his own net by Andriy Yarmolenko. And the home side were able to see out the game to end their long wait for another World Cup appearance.

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Bale was the difference-maker in front of goal. But Wales required some unbelievable performances from those at the back. Wayne Hennessey has perhaps never been better.

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But no one was quite as impressive as Davies. The Spurs centre-back was colossal. He seemed to block everything that went anywhere near him. And he made one remarkable challenge just before the hour-mark that kept Wales in front.

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Yarmolenko was played in, through on goal seemingly with only Hennessey to beat. However, Davies came from nowhere to produce an impeccably-timed sliding tackle to clear the ball from danger.

And Edwards – who would later describe Davies’ display as ‘magnificent’ – could not praise the 29-year-old high enough for ensuring that Wales stayed in front.

“Ben Davies, heroic defending, notices the run, gets himself across. Excellent positional play from Ben Davies, just like in Euro 2016 against Slovakia when he cleared off the line. He knows where the danger is, and what a brilliant tackle,” he told Sky Sports.

Davies’ performance on Sunday would have come as no surprise to Tottenham fans. He has been almost transformed since Antonio Conte was appointed.

He has been a revelation in the left centre-back role. And he absolutely shone there once again against a spirited Ukraine side.

Credit also has to go to Joe Rodon. The centre-back has had a difficult time at Tottenham. And yet, he never disappoints when he represents his country.

The pair now have additional motivation to make an impact in the early stages of next season. Wales are heading to the World Cup.

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