Wales U21s fail to close in on top spot of Group 5 with defeat to Romania U21s

Wales Under-21s have failed to put pressure on Group 5 leaders Denmark following a 2-1 defeat to Romania Under-21s in Medias on Tuesday.

The hosts started the Euro 2017 qualifier brightly and had a handful of chances in the early stages of the game, and Wales needed to remain tight in defence.

Geraint Williams's side looked solid at the back, but they eventually conceded in the 37th minute when Robert Hodorogea got his effort past the goalkeeper.

Wales were given some hope when they were awarded a penalty three minutes from the half-time whistle, and it was Ellis Harrison who took the spot kick.

The forward wasted his effort, though, as goalkeeper Valentin Cojocaru made a save and preserved Romania's lead at the break.

Wales were left to rue that missed penalty as the home side extended their lead 12 minutes into the second half thanks to a goal from Alexandru Ionita.

The visitors had it all to do to come from behind, and they almost conceded a third in the 71st minute, but Billy O'Brien pulled off a decent stop to prevent Claudiu Bumba's effort from nestling into the net.

Jake Charles managed to pull a goal back for Wales, but it was in the 92nd minute and did not give the team time to stage a dramatic comeback.

Wales remain second in the group, four points behind Denmark.