In the long run, the Socceroos will hope that they can look back at this game as a building block rather than something momentous in and of itself. They weren’t particularly good but they found a way to win, which is a skill in and of itself, and they looked like they were able to work on a few things.
Bos, in his first ‘Roos game in nine months, was a bright spark in the XI and the young substitutes provided a real bolt of energy off the bench – giving reason to be hopeful for the future.
The play of Toure, in particular, was impressive even before he set up Balard’s goal but the patience and poise he should in the build-up to providing the assist was first-class. He’s just 21 but, especially given that he’s playing regularly at Randers, he looks ready to shoulder a larger role.
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Full-time: Australia 1-0 New Zealand
Stop me if you’ve heard this one before. The Socceroos spent a lot of pinned back and lacking in inspiration and played some pretty ugly football at times but, ultimately, found a goal that has delivered them a result.
Max Balard’s 87th minute goal on debut ensures that Tony Popovic remains unbeaten as Socceroo boss and Australia remains in the box seat to retain the Soccer Ashes.
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