Former Central Coast Mariners stars Mat Ryan, Trent Sainsbury and Mile Jedinak have helped the Socceroos secure their spot in the AFC Asian Cup Final after a 2-0 win over the United Arab Emirates in Newcastle on Tuesday night.
Ex-Mariners skipper Alex Wilkinson remained on the bench for Ange Postecoglou’s side, but could perhaps see game time when Australia face Korea Republic in the tournament decider on Saturday in Sydney.
It was a fantastic start for Australia with Sainsbury and Jason Davidson netting their first international goals as the Socceroos scored twice within the opening 14 minutes.
UAE tried their best to work their way back into the encounter but were no match for the Green and Gold, who have sealed a second successive AFC Asian Cup Final berth.
Well done Maty, Sains, Jedi and Wilko! Let’s keep the AFC Asian Cup in Oz!
