Australia's Josh Kennedy landed a scrambled goal to secure victory over Denmark in their World Cup warm-up.
Socceroos striker wraps up win with only goal of match
Australia striker Josh Kennedy landed a scrambled goal to secure a 1-0 victory over Denmark in their World Cup warm-up in South Africa on Tuesday.
Japan-based Kennedy seemed to have lost his opportunity when a looping header off a cross was fired upwards, but he jumped in as the ball dropped to edge it past goalkeeper Stephan Anderson.
A goalless first half saw less excitement, with both teams creating few chances, though Liverpool defender Daniel Agger gave the Socceroos an early scare with a free-kick that almost hit the target.
Fit-again Fulham keeper Mark Schwarzer moved across his goal quickly to cover, but then offered the Danes another chance when he delivered a shoddy clearance.
However, that opportunity was spurned as Denmark captain Jon-Dahl Tomasson failed to keep control of the ball.
Close
Australia skipper Lucas Neill came closest to putting his side ahead before the break when his attempt after a goalmouth scramble flew just off target.
Christian Poulson got close for Denmark 12 minutes into the second half with a powerful drive, but Schwarzer deflected the shot before the ball was cleared.
The victory will give Australia a confidence boost going into their tough Group D fixtures against Germany, Ghana and Serbia, while Denmark will take on the Netherlands, Cameroon and Japan in Group E.
