Metcalfe reviews strong Socceroos performance at Wembley
Following Australia’s narrow defeat to England, midfielder Connor Metcalfe reflected on both Australia and his exceptional performances, as well as looking forward to the match against New Zealand on Wednesday morning.
The Socceroos played at the iconic Wembley Stadium in front of 80,000 fans, and put up a valiant display, with Metcalfe praising the side’s performance and the Australian supporters in the crowd.
“It was pretty special tonight,” he said.
“Even when we started singing the national anthem, you can hear all the Aussies as well, which was pretty nice to hear.
“But yeah, they’re a quality side, and I think the coaches were happy and we were all happy with the way we performed.
“Considering the players they’ve got, you know, they play at the top level and we gave it our best, and I think we should’ve equalised - I should’ve equalised to be honest.”
Tweet: https://twitter.com/Socceroos/status/1712932876256424060
The potential leveller Metcalfe was referring to came in the 80th minute of the match, where he rose highest at the back post and cannoned a header towards goal.
His effort, which looked destined for the back of the net, bounced precariously off the post, before sailing bitterly out for a goal kick.
“I peeled back post and I just saw the ball coming and thought I was free,” said Metcalfe of that opportunity.
“I jumped for it and made good connection, and I just heard that post and my eyes just closed straightaway.
“I was just thinking ‘far out, please go in’.
“But it’s good signs for myself, to get into the right areas and things like that.
“Hopefully my first goal will come soon.”
While the goal didn’t come, Metcalfe put up a sublime showing against one of the best national teams in the world, continuing on from the form at St Pauli in Germany’s 2. Bundesliga which has seen him net two goals and one assist in his last four matches in the league.
Tweet: https://twitter.com/Socceroos/status/1712996643065266382
The midfielder was rightfully proud of his performance.
“To start for your country is one thing, but I was very happy with the way I played”, he said.
“I didn’t really know what to expect, these players are unbelievable.
“I just tried to keep it simple and keep the ball moving and try to get into good areas, and I was very happy with the way I played.”
The nerves didn’t show in the match, but before, the 80,000 crowd had an impact on Metcalfe, and playing at Wembley with his beloved national team is a memory he’ll have for life.
“When you walk out, it’s pretty daunting,” he recalled.
“When you sing the national anthem, I looked up to the top tier and I was shocked, and even when we heard the England national anthem, the noise they made was pretty amazing.
“It’s going to be a memory for life.”
But Metcalfe is already looking forward to the Socceroos’ next match - against New Zealand on Wednesday morning.
He outlined one clear aim for the Green and Gold when facing their old foes.
“I’m looking forward to it - it’s another rivalry,” said Metcalfe.
“I think it’s an opportunity for us to really work on ourselves, and I think the main goal is to score, I really think our main goal is to just get the ball in the back of the net.
“We’re having the chances but we’re just not taking them at the end of the day.”
Upcoming match
Australia v New Zealand - International Friendly
Tuesday, 17 October
Gtech Community Stadium, Brentford, London UK
Kick-off: 7.45pm local / 5.45am AEDT (Wednesday, 18 October)
Tickets: Purchase Here
