Australia U-23's secure comeback win over Macarthur FC

Two quick-fire goals inside the last 12 minutes has seen the Australian U-23 Men’s side come from behind to beat Macarthur FC 2-1 on Tuesday.

In a tight tussle at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium, the A-League newcomers looked like they might snatch the win when trialist Lachlan Rose opened the scoring midway through the second half.

But the Aussie youngsters finished the stronger, registering a confidence-boosting victory with two goals in the space of two minutes.

First Connor Metcalfe drew the Olyroos level with a stunning long-range strike 12 minutes from time before substitute Ramy Najjarine scored the winner soon after.

It was just reward for Arnold’s side who dominated possession and field position for long periods.

In contrast to last Thursday’s 3-0 loss to Sydney FC, the Olyroos made a strong start without creating a host of chances.

But their expansive play and relentless pressure eventually wore down Macarthur late in the match.

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Key moments

Tight opening half in Kogarah

In contrast to the Sydney FC clash, the young Aussies enjoyed the better if the first half, dominating both possession and field position.

There were few opportunities created though, with Michael Ruhs having Macarthur’s best chance when he shot straight at Tom Glover, while Connor Metcalfe almost got on the end of Denis Genreau’s cross at the other end.

There was also an interesting moment early on when the sprinklers came on just as the Olyroos were launching an attack. Thankfully they only stayed up for a few seconds.

Rose puts his hand up for a contract

Ante Milicic introduced trialist Rose just after the hour-mark and the attacker made his opportunity count soon after.

A sloppy turnover by the Olyroos saw Macarthur pour forward, with a few passes exchanged before Mark Milligan’s incisive pass got Rose free in the box.

And the youngster showed an eye for goal, slamming the ball past Glover from a very tight angle.

Metcalfe piledriver levels it up

Like the young Aussies had done all match, they took their corner short as the Macarthur defence was still getting set.

The ball found it’s way to Metcalfe 25 metres from goal, with the Melbourne City playmaker beating one defender and cutting the ball back onto his left foot.

He then unleashed a powerful drive which flew past Suman and nestled into the far corner of the net.

Najjarine with the simple finish

Metcalfe was again involved a couple of minutes later, with his switch of possession finding Ryan Strain on the right.

The defender played a teasing ball into the middle which the Bulls failed to deal with, with the loose ball falling to Najjarine who had the simple task to tap it in from close range.

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