Tim Cahill says the wonder goal which put the Socceroos on the path to the Asian Cup semi-finals came as a result of instinct and teamwork.
The all-time leading scorer for Australia added another all-time classic goal to his collection when he sensationally scissor-kicked a floated header past Chinese goalkeeper Wang Dalei with the outside of his boot.
The astonishing goal gave the Socceroos the lead and allowed them to take control of the game against a Chinese side which had previously been hard to break down.
When the second goal came, it was inevitably Cahill again who was responsible, this time with a trademark header.
When asked about scoring such a freakish first goal, Cahill pointed out that he has past form in that department.
“Someone asked me if I’d scored like that before and I said ‘yes, against Chelsea away,’” he said.
“The thing is, it’s instinct.
“And the World Cup was probably a fluke like people are saying and today’s probably a fluke again.”
Cahill’s equally impressive strike against the Netherlands at the Brazil 2014 World Cup was voted one of the top ten goals of the tournament, and his latest effort will be remembered as one of the best of the Asian Cup.
But the New York Red Bulls man insisted his teammates played a big part in such moments of glory.
“Instead of being about me, it’s been about the team and the amount of effort and work that we’ve put in.
“Months ago, when I said I really believe in this team I meant it.
“And it was hard because no one could really see the end goal and how hard we work, the football we play and the intensity we give in training and in the game.
“And when I get the chances – tonight I had four chances and I scored twice – it rewards the play and the hard work of the boys and likewise, for everyone.”
Cahill was optimistic about the way the current Australian side is developing.
“The future’s bright,” he said.
“The main thing for us is to keep out feet on the floor and to try to really see what our potential is.
“The boss said to me at the last World Cup, why can’t this be the best World Cup that you’ve ever had, and he challenged me and he’s challenged me again.”
The Socceroos will face Japan or UAE in the Semi-Finals of the AFC Asian Cup at Newcastle Stadium on Tuesday 27 January (8.00pm local kick off). Click Here to purchase tickets.
