By Lachlan Mitchell
Australia took on Vietnam on Thursday night at Melbourne’s Rectangular Stadium in a must-win clash if they are any chance of a clear passage to the World Cup later this year.
The Socceroos, as they are affectionately known, were featuring four Melbourne City players, including super striker Jamie Maclaren, and playmaker Matthew Leckie as well as young gun Riley McGree.
Maclaren, Leckie and McGree are all integral parts of the City squad that now calls Casey Fields in Cranbourne its home base for training.
The green and gold had their backs against the wall early after a strong start by the Vietnamese outfit. The away team failed to capitalise on any early opportunity and would rue missed chances.
Australia had its first after a clear run of domination through Maclaren, leading to a well-guided header by the City striker seeing the Socceroos take a 1-0 lead.
The City boys were once again in the thick of the action after a quickly played free-kick saw Leckie set up Tom Rogic for a two-nil lead leading into halftime.
Australia put the foot down in the second half taking control of possession and applying pressure on the Vietnam defence.
The Socceroos quickly saw themselves 3-0 up after a long ball from shot-stopper Mat Ryan set up Adelaide United’s very own Craig Goodwin.
Melbourne City saw their third man come onto the field and he quickly made an impact with Riley McGree sealing the 4-0 victory with a low long-range strike.
Marco Tilio made his national debut in the 81st minute and was clean in possession being on the end of a few passes to wind out the game.
Australia face Oman today, 2 February, as it continues its run to the FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
