I thought it was an earned result against a better team.
I did find the number of unforced errors frustrating. Some of that is the difference in skill level but some is confidence and composure on the ball when under real pressure and with less time than your used to. I definitely thought our composure and confidence grew in the 2nd half.
Really good effort and decent result.
Hopefully we get a big croud in Wellington and the lads have a real crack at winning it.
Unforced errors are obviously going to happen more with younger players, though; that applies to every team, not just ours.
Congrats to the team, think that's a terrific result and the fact we competed at home in front of a big home croud is testament to their preparation. That kind of occassion has easily overwhelemed NZ teams in the past.
The lack of composure did cost us. Though with young players who are not used to high pressure situations it will happen. THe two best goal scoring situations we missed stand out. The first was Lewis.....did really well to get in front of the defender, then played a lovely touch to get the ball to his left....he then wacked his shot wide. With a cooler head he would have realised he was inside the box, the keeper had stayed back. He could have passed the ball into the net either side. Ditto the missed header. Our guy tried to guide it wide across the keeper...that is the low percentage option. Better to head it firmly down....most times, unless its straight at the keeper its in the net.
I'm not trying to be critical because these kids are young and inexperianced and they had a split second to react....but it does illustrate the lack of composure. We created some nice chances and could/should have scored. THe team will be better for this hit out. Hopefully when chances come in other games we can take them.
