Match Report
The Caltex Socceroos lost 2-1 to England on Friday night (Saturday morning Australian time) in a valuable test ahead of their final phase of World Cup qualifying later this year.
Goals to Manchester United duo Marcus Rashford and Wayne Rooney gave the hosts a 2-0 lead.
But an Eric Dier own goal gave Australia some late hope.
After going down to a second minute goal by rising star Rashford - the Manchester United striker clinically finishing from close range after a deflection fell kindly - the Australians calmly worked their way back into the contest.
With Tom Rogic a constant outlet at the tip of a midfield diamond, the Socceroos created some half chances and dominated possession for the remainder of the half.
Robbie Kruse and Rogic had long-range shots on goal as Australia’s possession play took the large crowd in Sunderland out of the equation.
England struggled to gain a foothold on the game but did look dangerous going forward with Raheem Sterling and the excellent Rashford their two main outlets.
Just on half time Aussie keeper Mat Ryan was at his best to keep out a second after a rasping drive from the edge of the box by former Sunderland player Jordan Henderson was tipped over.
At half time the hosts lead 1-0 in a game that Australia had mostly dominated but failed to convert possession into goals.
Wayne Rooney came on in the second half to reprise his appearance as a sub when the teams last met in 2003.
The Socceroos pressed early in the second 45 with Rogic fashioning another effort, his long-range effort sailing over the bar.
