All White Marco Stamenic competes with Socceroo Jackson Irvine. Photo: www.photosport.nz
The All Whites were dealt a blow in the opening Soccer Ashes clash, with Max Balard striking for the Socceroos in the 87th minute to seal a 1-0 victory at GIO Stadium in Canberra.
For much of the contest, Darren Bazeley's side had the upper hand, putting nine shots on goal to the Socceroos' five. But the game turned after the hour mark when Bazeley substituted skipper Chris Wood and the returning Ryan Thomas, while Tony Popovic injected youthful energy into Australia's attack.
The All Whites, aiming to end a seven-match losing streak against Australia stretching back to 2002, sought to tighten up defensively in the final stages. However, Mo Toure burst down the left, cut inside the box, and found Balard unmarked. The midfielder calmly drove a low shot into the bottom corner, scoring only moments after being subbed on.
The two teams now head to Auckland for game two of the Soccer Ashes at Go Media Mt Smart Stadium in Auckland on Tuesday night.
See how the game unfolded below:
