Caltex Socceroos defender Brad Smith has got some crucial minutes under the belt ahead of next month’s FIFA World Cup qualifying playoff against Syria in AFC Bournemouth’s Carabao Cup win this morning (AEST).
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Smith was one of a handful of Aussies whose clubs were in action in England’s League Cup.
Here’s the wrap of how they all fared.
BRAD’S BOURNEMOUTH GO THROUGH
Starting at left-back, Smith helped Bournemouth advance 1-0 after extra-time at the expense of fellow Premier League side Brighton and Hove Albion.
The Caltex Socceroos defender played all 120 minutes, with Joshua King's extra-time goal enough to decide the contest.
With a Premier League game to come in just a couple of days, goalkeeper Mat Ryan wasn't included in Brighton's match-day squad.
NO JOY FOR MOOY
Aaron Mooy started from the bench as Huddersfield Town lost away against fellow EPL outfit Crystal Palace.
The in-form Aussie midfielder was introduced with 20 minutes left but was unable to prevent the Terries slumping to a 1-0 defeat.
MILE SITS OUT VILLA LOSS
Fresh from his recall to the Caltex Socceroos squad to face Syria, Mile Jedinak didn't feature for Aston Villa in their 2-0 loss at home to fellow Championship side Middlesbrough.
However, 20-year-old Australian midfielder Jordan Lyden was given half an hour off the bench.
WRIGHT WATCHES ON AS CITY ADVANCE
Defender Bailey Wright was given a rest for Bristol City, starting on the bench as they upset EPL outfit Stoke City.
The Caltex Socceroos centre-back was un unused sub as his Championship side prevailed 2-0 at Ashton Gate Stadium.
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