The LG Joeys completed its FIFA U/17 World Championship preparations with 0-0 draw against a strong USA U/17 side in Miami earlier this morning (Australian time).
Played in hot and humid conditions, the LG Joeys performance was very encouraging for coach Ange Postecoglou and they will head to the Championships full of confidence.
The USA, also in the same stages of preparation, only a few days ago beat Championship favourites Brazil 1-0 in a friendly, and Brazil just happens to be Australiaıs first opponent.
Coach Ange Postecoglou believed it was the ideal final hit-out, saying: ³It wasnıt a bad result at all. It was hard game in tough conditions, so it was ideal for us.²
³We had our chances to win the game and I thought we handled the conditions better than the American team, and they have been together as a squad for a year down here in Miami.²
There was little action of note in the first half but in the second 45 minutes play opened up and the chances started coming, mostly to Australia.
Twice, the US goalkeeper denied Parramatta Power striker Brett Holman, while the keeper also denied Northern Spiritıs Matthew Engele after coming on as a substitute.
³The lads have adapted well to the conditions and we can go to Trinidad and Tobago with a good deal of confidence,² added Postecoglou.