Socceroo goal-scorer James Troisi says the team made a nervous start in their tournament opener against Kuwait, but the 4-1 comeback win said a lot about Australia's chances in the Asian Cup.
“We made a big statement. We were a little disappointed with the goal we conceded but it’s a great start with four goals," an ecstatic Troisi told reporters after the game.
Tim Cahill got the comeback underway after slotting home the equaliser on Friday night before Massimo Luongo, Mile Jedinak (penalty) and Troisi hit the back of the net at Melbourne’s Rectangular Stadium to confirm an impressive three points.
“It takes a bit of pressure off us now as we look forward and progress," said Troisi, a former Melbourne Victory star.
“There was always going to be nerves but we went in 2-1 at halftime and came out and played a lot of good football in the second half.”
Troisi conceded once Kuwait took the lead it was always going to be challenging to break them down as the visitors began to park the bus.
“They sat really deep so it was always going to be difficult. There wasn’t a lot of space and AAMI Park isn’t a big pitch either.
“So it was difficult but we found little gaps and little moments and we knew they’d fatigue in the end.”
As for his goal, the 26-year-old Zulte Waragem star said it was all about being opportunistic.
“I was pretty close to Leckie and the ball fell and I pounced on it and had a swing and put a ball in the back of the net.
“It a nice feeling scoring back here at AAMI but most important was that we got off to a good start.”
The Socceroos now head to Sydney to face Oman next Tuesday night.
With a big crowd at Stadium Australia, Troisi is vowing to give the fans another show.
“The fans were amazing tonight and I’m sure it’ll be like this in every game we play and we want to give back to the fans. It’s not only just for us, it’s for everyone.
“And we rate our chances very highly in this whole tournament.”
Kuwait star Bader Al Almotawaa congratulated Australia on the win but rued the team's lack of killer instinct after going one goal up early on.
“Australia, I must congratulate. When we scored we played too back [defensive]. I can’t say they had one great player, they all played well,” he said of the Socceroos.
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