That was a very enjoyable game of football tonight in Perth for those of you who are still burning the midnight oil with me here in Sydney.
Graham Arnold made the most of this dead rubber by really stretching out his squad and showing talent all over the park. Also what a difference a great surface and an opposition who want to play football make.
The standouts were Martin Boyle who caused chaos for Palestine with two assists and a goal, Parma’s Alessandro Circati on his second cap in front of his home fans in Perth was outstanding in defence. Another hometown hero Adam Taggart was industrious up front, working well with Portsmouth’s Kusini Yengi who provided danger for the Palestine defence all night.
The bench wasn’t bad either with Nestory Irankunda saying goodbye to Australia with a well taken penalty ahead of his move to Bayern Munich.
Perth certainly played its role with brilliant noise from both sets of fans, the scoreline was slightly harsh on Palestine who certainly could not be faulted for their industry tonight.
It bodes well for the Socceroos ahead of their next qualifying phase in September, not a bad way to sign off for the moment. Australia certainly enjoyed their homecoming.
Australia 5 Palestine 0 at full time
Martin Boyle celebrates scoringCredit: Getty Images
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