Friday, 8 November 2002 12:00 AM
CONGRATULATIONS Vince Lia, Massimo Murdocca and Michael Baird on your selection in the Australia Under-20 squad for the Oceania World Youth Championship qualifying tournament.
The squad will go into camp in Melbourne on December 1 before departing for Port Vila on December 4. The Young Socceroos will play only two matches in their qualifying group (Group A) on December 7 and 9.
Vince Lia and Michael Baird have had sensational starts to the season, pulsating South Melbourne’s attack and played an inspirational role so far. Vince Lia who was one of the stand out players in the recent Festival Cup in Adelaide is hoping to repeat his splendid performance.
“It’s exciting to be chosen as part of the squad along with two of my team-mates. I am looking forward to the experience which I hope will be a positive one for me”.
Baird is also excited about the prospect of representing his country and will be fighting for a spot in the starting eleven against five other forwards.
“Its obviously the pinnacle of all players career to represent their country. I want to be in the best possible form for South Melbourne and for the upcoming qualifying tournament. I would love to represent my country at the Youth World Cup next year”.
“I want to get into the starting line up, do my best and from they’re try and qualify for the World Cup”, says Baird
Last seasons Rising Star Massimo Murdocca has been superb for the Club and is also proud to be called up into the Under 20 squad.
“It’s a big achievement. Making the Under 20 squad has been a long time goal for me. Just getting a call up is a thrill and hope to get something out of it”, says Murdocca.
All three players are likely to miss South Melbourne’s Round 12 & 13 matches. If Australia qualify in Group A, will meet the Group B winners over two legs with the second leg held on December 22 in Melbourne.
The winner of the playoff shall represent Oceania at the FIFA World Youth Championship to be held in the United Arab Emirates from 25 March – 16 April 2003.