Boyle explains muted celebration following diving header against Indonesia

Martin Boyle has explained his reaction following his goal in the Socceroos’ 4-0 win against Indonesia on Sunday night.

The goal came at a crucial time for Australia, the winger doubling the side’s advantage on the stroke of halftime after a competitive opening stanza.

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Gethin Jones notched his first assist in the green and gold from fullback, finding a flying Boyle at the back post with an accurate right-sided delivery.  

The goal continued Boyle’s strong run, making it back-to-back goals in the Asian Cup ahead of the quarter-finals.

He said he wasn’t immediately aware he had scored despite making contact with the ball.

“I had no idea. Everyone was just looking over me. I just blanked out for a second, but these things happen,” Boyle said. 

“It hit off my head funny. These balls are hard. I just got a bit dazed.

“I’m definitely not worried about my hair!

“I’ve got to be there to score the goals, and thankfully, it went in.”

Tweet: https://twitter.com/Socceroos/status/1751594508243075399

The Aussies put on a clinical display against Indonesia, warding off a valiant challenge from their opponents.

After Boyle’s finish just before the break, it took Australia until the final moments of the match to add further gloss to the score line with two more goals.

Substitute Craig Goodwin was at the heart of both, scoring the team’s third and then assisting Harry Souttar for the fourth.

Boyle said Goodwin’s performance highlights the importance of substitutes in changing the game for the Socceroos.

He also said he was pleased Australia took their chances against a tough Indonesia.

“Credit to them [Indonesia], they were coming out. Second half, we nullified their chances,” Boyle said.

“It just shows you the impact these bench players have, top players coming off the bench which is good.

“I said midweek we had to be more ruthless - four goals today, I guess we can’t complain. Another clean sheet; perfect.”

Australia face a blockbuster quarterfinal clash with either Saudi Arabia or South Korea on Saturday with a chance to make the semi-finals.

AFC ASIAN CUP QATAR 2023™ QUARTER FINAL

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