Aussies under-23 team survives Azkals’ late scare to win 1-0

Jason Hoffman’s 11th minute goal was just enough for the Australian Under-23 side who were frustrated by a strong performance from the Azkals.

Criticized for rarely making substitutions, and too late if ever, Coach Weiss started the second half with a change, bringing in Martin Doctora for Ian Araneta. Pressing higher, Doctora gave the Azkals’ defense and midfield a bit of breathing space, butAustraliastill started brighter.

The Azkals then had their best period of the game as they produced several attacks to come close to equalizing. Jason Sabio’s long throw deep in the Australian half was met by Denis Wolf who did well to slide in between the two defenders from six yards out. He just couldn’t get enough on the ball and it looped up and comfortably for Matt Ryan. Kaya forward Joshua Beloya was then found magnificently by his teammate Lexton Moy in the 88th minute.

Beloya controlled well to turn but just got under the volley and lashed it over from ten yards out asAustraliaheld onto their 1-0 lead.