Young Socceroos open campaign with win

The Young Socceroos have opened their 2007 FIFA World Youth Championship campaign with a solid 3-0 win over Turkmenistan in Colombo, Sri Lanka overnight.

The Australians got off to a dream start in what was their first Asian qualifying match since Australia joined the Asian Football Confederation, with Troy Hearfield of the AIS scoring in the first minute. Second half goals from Hearfield and Queensland Roar’s David Williams ensured victory in a match played in hot and humid conditions.

Midfielder Jimmy Downey was the provider for Hearfield’s opener delivering a perfect cross for the goal, and he repeated the dose for Australia’s third goal allowing Williams to score from close range in the 70th minute. Hearfield scored his second five minutes earlier with a left footed drive from the edge of the penalty area.

Australia now have a four-day wait for their second and final match against host-nation Sri Lanka on Saturday. The winner of the group will compete in the AFC U-20 Championship in India in October with the top four teams to qualify for the 2007 FIFA World Youth Championship in Canada.

Australia   3 (Troy Hearfield 1’, 70’, David Williams 65’)

Turkmenistan   0

Australian line-up:

Tando Velaphi (gk); Steven O'dor, Matthew Spiranovic, Peter Eleftherakis, Jimmy Downey, Greg King, Shaun Ontong, Troy Hearfield (Tarek Elrich 67’), Chris Grossman (Foad Comandari 73’), Bruce Djite (David Williams 60’), Dario Vidosic.

Cautions: Djite 30’

Australia vs Turkmenistan -- Aus 3-0
Sugathadash Stadium, Colombo
Wednesday 22 February, 4pm (9pm AEDST)

Sri Lanka vs Turkmenistan
Sugathadash Stadium, Colombo
Friday 24 February, 4pm (9pm AEDST)

Sri Lanka vs Australia
Sugathadash Stadium, Colombo
Sunday 26 February, 4pm (9pm AEDST)