Australia (2) v (3) Portugal
By George Thomson
HOTLY tipped Portugal edged out hosts Australia 3-2 in this top-of-the-table Group H clash at Fed Square. Roared on by a large crowd, the players were clearly fired up by the occasion.
Portugal kicked off and the opening few minutes were characterised by furious but disjointed play. Australia struck a post, but much of the play was funnelled into the corners by defences desperate not to be the one to crack first.
The deadlock was broken mid-way through the half, when the Portuguese captain led by example and fired home.
Australia appeared to equalise immediately, but their effort was disallowed for encroachment into the box, much to the disappointment of the vocal crowd.
Australia's Stephen Maloney was tireless, stretching the Portuguese defence at all times. But the Portuguese keeper Goncalves was in inspired form, marshalling his outfield players and giving nothing away.
Just before half-time his Australian counterpart pulled off a terrific save to keep his team in this tight game.
The second half brought more goals, but more excellent keeping from Goncalves, who saved bravely at Eddy Halids' feet.
However there was nothing he could do as Australia's Maloney arrived unmarked at the far post to equalise and send the crowd into raptures.
With the scores level, neither team allowed the ferocious tempo of the match to drop.
With so little difference between the teams, a moment of inspiration was needed. Portugal provided it, Fabio Ramos rifling home after being put through by a delightful back heel.
With his confidence boosted by his fine finish, Ramos immediately added another.
However this game was always destined for a tight finish and Australia's talismanic Maloney scored again to set up a tight finish. With 50 seconds left, a blue card for Portugal allowed Australia to push for a late equaliser.
But Goncalves, the game's outstanding performer, produced two more vital saves to seal his team's 3-2 win.
Photos: Photoworx
