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Luck of the irish topples Australia 2-1
Australia's hopes of knocking over the Irish after taking down the English six months earlier, were left unforfilled as Ireland managed to come from a goal down to take a 2-1 victory.
The first half saw both teams take about ten minutes to feel each other out, alot of the Irish play going back and forth the defence line while Australia's possession consisted of touches between the midfield and defence. Soon enough however the pace picked up, Australia taking charge and making most of the attacking runs. The closest opportunity in the first half came in the 14th minute when Marco Bresciano brought the ball down expertly and hammered a shot at goal, rattling the crossbar. Australia had one other good opportunity when Mark Schwarzers clearence found Danny Tiatto in space. He sprayed his shot wide however to find nothing but advertising boards.
The second half started strongly for ireland but it was Australia who would find the net early. Stan Lazaridis made a run down the left flank, sending in a cross. Mark Viduka, from six yards out controlled and volleyed the ball into the net to break his 6 year goalscoring drought for the national side in the 49th minute.
From here it was all Ireland however and althought Australia defended valiently they succumed to the preassure in the 75th minute. A silly freekick which quite possibly had nothing in it, saw a cross come in for John O'Shea to head in at extra close range. It was his first goal for Ireland. Clinton Morrison, also wanting to impress after coming from the substitute bench, chipped in to give ireland the lead on 81 minutes when he found open space, forcing Schwarzer out and Morrison the opportunity to poke the ball into the net.
Australia now prepare for their friendly against Jamaica in three weeks time while Ireland prepare for their two Euro 2004 qualifiers.
20 August, 2003 |
