Day 5 at the Socceroos’ boot camp for Brazil

It was a change of pace and a well-earned rest for the majority of the Socceroos on Monday as they swapped their boots and the training ground for boardies and the beach.

It was a change of pace and a well-earned rest for the majority of the Socceroos on Monday as they swapped their boots and the training ground for boardies and the beach.

After three rigorous days of training at Central Coast Stadium, coach Ange Postecoglou gave most of his squad a recovery day to recharge the batteries for another gruelling week of preparations.

Only the players who arrived into camp in the last couple of days – Tim Cahill, Mathew Leckie, James Holland, Ben Halloran and Alex Wilkinson – were required to train.

The day off also allowed the likes of Curtis Good (hip), Adam Sarota (groin) and Mile Jedinak (groin) to continue their treatment for their respective injuries.

It came as a welcome respite for the rest of the squad who have been pushed to their limits over the opening few days in camp.

The players took to the water at Terrigal Beach for about 20 minutes, then completing a series of stretches under the supervision of the team's fitness staff.

The down-time is vital for the squad, with training expected to ramp up once the remainder of players come into camp. 

Postecoglou plans to have his side as one of the fittest teams at the World Cup, to be able to implement his high tempo, pressing game.

It means the squad will endure many more intense training sessions in the lead up to next Monday's friendly against South Africa in Sydney and when they get to Brazil.

Later on Monday, a delegation of Socceroos and coach Ange Postecoglou met members of the local Council as green and gold fever continues to sweep across the region.

The reception was hosted by Mayor of Gosford – and former Hyundai A-League coach of the Mariners – Lawrie McKinna.
 

 


The Socceroos will remain in camp on the Central Coast until Wednesday night, when they shift base to Sydney before the farewell game against Bafana Bafana.

Send Off the Socceroos
Socceroos vs South Africa, presented by NAB

Monday 26 May 2014
ANZ Stadium, Sydney 
Kick-off: 7.30pm
Tickets from $30, including public transport. Buy now!