Kennedy wary of scorned Dutch

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Qantas Socceroos striker Josh Kennedy is expecting a fired-up Dutch side to go all out in an attempt to regain some pride on Saturday after losing to Australia in Eindhoven last year.

Australia notched a famous 2-1 friendly victory against the Netherlands in September 2008, causing the Dutch some embarrassment and continuing to build the rivalry between the two nations.

Kennedy was heavily involved in that match, winning the penalty for the first goal before scoring the winner 14 minutes from time. He knows that the proud European nation, currently ranked No.3 in the world, will be determined for revenge.

"I dare say they'd love to come here and beat us on our home soil, regardless of whether they admit it or not. Obviously we'd feel the same if they beat us here. I think they'll be out to get us," he said.

"To play against a top team in the world like that, it-s obviously exciting for everyone. Especially since we beat them last time in their backyard in Holland. It will be a good test for us to see where we are at again."

Dutch veteran Giovanni Van Bronckhorst agrees with Kennedy that the visiting side will be out for some revenge at the Sydney Football Stadium on Saturday night.

"The last two encounters we lost and we drew one. We are a long way from home. It-s a nice game, Australia is a very good team and we are hoping we can win this time," he said.

Van Bronckhorst, who has played in the big leagues in England, Spain, Scotland as well as him home country in his long club career, rates the Qantas Socceroos highly, and believes the current world ranking of 14 is befitting the quality of players Australia has.

"They have a lot of players playing in England for the big teams. So, I think that helps the Australian team to get more stature. They are already qualified for the World Cup. I think it's a very good team," he said.

Kennedy, meanwhile, is delighted with how his move to Japanese outfit Nagoya Grampus has worked out. The giant striker has scored several important goals for his new club, including the goal which got Nagoya through to the final four of the Asian Champions League.

"It's been fantastic. Since day one, I've felt very comfortable there. Obviously going there and scoring a few goals has made the transition a lot easier than if I hadn't. So far, so good," he said.