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Craig HillSchwarzer rescues the Socceroos
March 27th 2008 04:35
Australian goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer secured a draw for the Socceroos in their World Cup qualifier with China overnight by saving an 88th-minute penalty which he conceded!
The Middlesbrough goalie hesitated as he came off his line to clear a hopeful ball from Sun Xiang, and by the time he went in to make a challenge on striker Qu Bo, his timing was out thus knocking down the substitute and a spot kick was awarded by referee Mohamed Al Saeedi.
However, China's penalty taker Shao Jiayi could only shoot straight at Schwarzer who managed to make a save with his legs despite diving to his left.
The visitors performed admirably given the circumstances of missing up to as many as 7 players including skipper Harry Kewell in the lead-up to the game and things got even worse when striker Archie Thompson was forced off due to an early injury.
Given the eventful build-up to the game, it is likely Australian coach Pim Verbeek would have been happy with a draw against dangerous opponents and he was rewarded with a gutsy performance by the Socceroos in Kunming - a priceless result and precious point gained which could go a long way in securing qualification for the World Cup in 2010.
Skipper for the night, West Ham's Lucas Neill was also full of praise for his team and was clearly impressed by the character of those who have stepped up into the side in place of the more senior and experienced players.
[Video Source: YouTube]
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