Australia v Iraq Wrapup
Australia v Iraq Wrapup
The match is over and the experts have cast their opinions, the coach and players have had their say. Now its my turn.
The Socceroos walked off Suncorp with 3 points. They achieved their objective. I do agree with the commentators and coach, in that the overall performance was below par. It was mostly in the back line with the Internationally inexperienced pairing of Beauchamp and North in the centre of defence. This is not their fault, Pim had to use the best players at his disposal and in my opinion he made the right choice. There is no doubt in my mind that the experience of Lucas Neil would have vastly improved the defence. But unless his wife has her child early we will be without him next week as well. I think that Emerton had a slow start to the match but eventually got into it. And Carney was solid without being outstanding.
The midfield also were good without being outstanding, I think Bresc was a little hard on himself in the media though. And Vinnie was rock solid as usual.
Scott MacDonald found it hard to get into the match as a lone striker, but i believe there are great things to come form him in the future. And Harry had a solid game to show us and prospective employers he still has much to give. The goal was from a magnificent cross by Emo and Harry’s head on the end of it was quality.
Man of the Match in my opinion had to be Schwartzer. He kept us in the game and made the crucial saves after a leaky defence.
Credit to the Iraqis who never gave up and had the better of the chances.
Our eyes turn to Dubai next Sunday for the return bout. Iraq are on the canvas but not knocked out just yet. They are very capable of beating us next week, so watch out boys.
Cheers
Terry
Let me know what you think, and leave a comment.
June 03 2008 09:18 pm | Socceroos and World Cup
