DREAM START FOR AUSTRALIA UNDER GRAHAM ARNOLD

October 16, 2018

A 4-0 win over Kuwait has provided a dream start for Australia under the coaching of Graham Arnold.  The retirements of Mile Jedinak and Tim Cahill from international football, provided an opportunity for Mike Milligan to captain the Socceroos, while Tom Rogic stood out as Australia’s new strike weapon in attack.

Australia went ahead via an own-goal, before Apostolos Giannou doubled the lead midway through the first half.  Substitute Daniel Arzani provided some flair, as did debutants Awer Mabil and Thomas Deng.  Tom Rogic scored with eight minutes left to play to increase the lead to 3-0.  Awer Mabil scored on debut to complete the 4-0 rout.

Jackson Irvine showed enough to be considered for a permanent role in the midfield, while goal keeper Danny Vukovic, and defender Trent Sainsbury put in their usual solid displays.  Australia plays further friendlies against South Korea and Lebanon in November, as they continue their preparations for the 2019 Asia Cup.