Troisi: Socceroos’ Aussie spirit shone through

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James Troisi

MORE: Asian Cup - Socceroos Triumph Photo GalleryHow the Socceroos claimed the Asian Cup Final 


Troisi, a second-half substitute for the injured Robbie Kruse, proved to be Australia’s hero as he scored in the first half of extra-time to seal a gripping 2-1 win at Stadium Australia.

“It was just an amazing night,” an ecstatic Troisi told reporters afterwards.

“The boys played so well and to win this trophy means so much.

“It was great to score the goal and be a part of it and create history for Australian football but it’s a team effort and it’s not just about me.

“We showed our Australian spirit tonight. We weren’t going to lose.”

It’s a mantra Ange Postecoglou’s side have used right throughout the tournament and one of the big reasons why they are now Asian champions.

Troisi’s goal – which came in the 105th minute – was a result of some brilliant work by fellow substitute Tomi Juric down the right.

The Western Sydney Wanderers FC striker was knocked to the ground in possession but got back up and beat two defenders with a classy back-heel through the legs.

His cross was spilled by Korean ‘keeper Kim Jin Hyeon, with Troisi on hand to slam it home from close range.

“I didn’t know what was going on to be honest.  I thought it was a free kick to start with but the ref didn’t give it,” Troisi said when asked about the move leading up to the goal.

“I just basically stayed on my toes and the keeper dropped it and I pounced on it.”

Midfielder Mark Milligan, who moved to right-back in the last 15 minutes of normal time to cover for the injured Ivan Franjic, was another star performer for the Socceroos.

While Franjic was a doubt in the lead-up to the match with a hip problem, Milligan revealed he didn’t train in the position at all but knew the job he had to do when called upon.  

“I’ve played a lot there. I know the position and while it’s not something I want to do too often, it had to be done tonight,” he said.

“That’s the story of our whole tournament, boys have stepped up, some in different positions whenever they’ve been called on.

“We’ve got a tight group and the whole message today was about family, outside and inside this team and that’s the best word for it.

“We fought for each other like you do your family.”

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