ATTACKING stars Gareth Bale, Aaron Ramsey and Joe Allen grabbed all the headlines after Wales’ 3-0 win over Russia but captain Ashley Williams says the clean sheet was just as important.
Chris Coleman’s men conceded only four goals in 10 games in qualifying but have not shut out the opposition since the final qualifier against Andorra last October.
In seven games since then Williams and his defensive partners have conceded 10 goals and the skipper was happy to end that run against Russia.
“We needed the clean sheet,” he said. “We hadn't had one for a long time including the friendlies.
“It is something we pride ourselves on as a team, not just me and the back guys, as a team we like clean sheets.
“We were having a shout me and Wayne [Hennessey] at the end about not over playing because we wanted a clean sheet.
“We never normally get that for Wales were we can relax a bit towards the end of the game.
“I thought we defended well because there was times when we had to defend but on the ball we were magnificent, especially the boys up front.”
Williams received some criticism for his performances in Wales’ first two games in France, notably from L'Equipe, which rated him 3/10 against Slovakia and England.
But the 31-year-old claims he’s not concerned as long as Wales keep on winning.
“People are going to say you play well or bad,” he said. “It is not really about anyone else, it is about our group and players and staff and fans and the road we are on.
“If we win and I get a zero every game then I am not bothered at all. It is not about Ashley Williams or what I am doing it is about the team.”
And Williams also dismissed suggestions that he is carrying an injury.
Asked about a possible hairline fracture, he said: “No that is not right, I don't where you got that from.
“I am OK, I am fine. I don't have a hairline fracture for the record. I am carrying a couple of knocks as I have been for the last 10 years. It is fine, I am as fit as I can be.”
On the superb display against Russia, Williams added: "Sometimes you just get the feeling the boys understand what is required.
"It is the best performance I have probably ever seen playing for Wales in eight years."
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