WE KNEW HE’D BALE PALS OUT
GARETH BALE is determined to make his mark on the world stage before he retires after “dragging Wales through” their opener according to team-mates.
The captain and record scorer delivered for his country again with his 41st international goal in their opening 1-1 draw against USA.
It salvaged a point for Rob Page’s men after a dire first half when they trailed and were totally outplayed.
But Bale stepped up in the second half as he won and converted a late penalty in the Group B clash.
The star, 33, is in the twilight of his career after moving to America this summer, where he won the MLS Cup, on a one-year contract with a 12-month option.
He has nothing to prove in club football after winning the Champions League five times with Real Madrid.
But Bale and the Dragons are breaking new ground in their first World Cup finals since 1958.
Attacker Harry Wilson insists Wales and their talisman, who has 109 caps, are fired up to grab the opportunity.
Fulham flyer Wilson said: “He deserves to be on this stage for what he has done at club level and also what he has done for our country.
“He drags us through tough games and got his goal. His performances over the years, he deserves to play at the World Cup on the biggest stage before he retires.”
Bale won the spot-kick when he was brought down by defender Walker Zimmerman before picking himself up to slam a left-foot effort into the corner eight minutes from time.
Wales shot-stopper Wayne Hennessey said: “Gareth has stepped up again – he’s been superb for us and we know what he does on big stages.
“With his record and what he can do – he steps up on the big occasions.
“Fair play to him, it was a fantastic penalty. We know him, he’s got a smile on his face and he’s performing well.”
Wales face Iran next on Friday, with Wilson expecting a reaction after Carlos Queiroz’s side were battered 6-2 by England.
Wilson added: “It’ll be up to us to make sure we’re on form.”