A game very nostalgic for an Australian football fan - poor defence, loose passing, untaken chances, promising moves forward! Australia played like the rusty unfamiliar side that they are in the first 30 mins, whilst Makedonia was fast, tight in control, and direct.
There were some chances for Australia early on through Aloisi and Corica. Horvat and Durakovic cleared some dangerous situations at the other end. In the last 15 of the 1st half the Socceroos starting to puch the ball around, keep possession and a great volleyed shot from Aurelio Vidmar was pushed aside by the good Makedonia keeper for a corner only. Makedonia fell away but even so in the dying minutes Bosnich has to make two clearances.
In the second half Aloisi had a good chance nudged away, followed by a Zelic strike. Some harrowing moments for Australia as the defence is caught flat and flat footed a number of times with Bosnich shaky behind. Horvat tackles well but the midfield starts breaking down. Venables makes 3 changes. In the 89 min a nice curling cross from Tiatto finds Aurelio Vidmar off the back post and his head beats the goalkeeper.
Australia lucky to win, although they had more clear chances. Makedonia a fast useful side. For us - there is still a lot of 'gelling' to do! Best: A.Vidmar, Horvat. Corica OK in 1st half as was Zelic 'til he faded. Aloisi and Bosnich poor games.
Referee: A Balkans area ref (not Makedonian) who may have been Con Diomis's cousin as he was poor. Let little physical happen, seemed biased to Makedonia, and erratic. Can't be an EC ref though - no cards!