Friday, 10 June 2005 12:16 PM
By Mark van Aken
SMFC skipper Vaughan Coveny has made a solid return to international football for New Zealand against Australia this morning at London’s Craven Cottage.
The veteran marksman was a focal point of attack for an All Whites side lacking a handful of its best talent. Despite Coveny’s sides best efforts, their stifling play could not deny Australia a gritty 1-0 win.
While the Socceroos had the better chances in the first half, a dogged Kiwi outfit stretched the Aussie defence on several occasions, including a second half blast from the SMFC stalwart. Although it curved wide of the goal, it had Perugia and Socceroos keeper Zelko Kalac on the back foot.
The second half inclusion of Simon Colosimo proved the difference for Frank Farina’s side. The former SMFC mid fielder scored the matches only goal in the 86th minute, a low range strike from the top of the penalty area finding the back of the Kiwi net.
Coveny received some harsh treatment from Australian captain Craig Moore, but came through the match in one piece and could be back in the blue and white as early as this Sunday’s clash against Bulleen Zebras (3.15pm Kick Off Bob Jane Stadium).