Young Socceroos win Asean Championships

The Young Socceroos claimed their second Asean Football Federation under-19s championship title by defeating Thailand 1-0 in Friday night's final.

An 81st minute goal by substitute Eli Babalj earned Australia their second title in
the past three years, ensuring they made amends for last year's heartbreaking loss
to Thailand on penalties.
Australia, captained by Newcastle Jets young gun Ben Kantarovski, had been unable
to break down the resolute Thailand defence aside from Adelaide striker Matthew
Leckie firing a header into the cross bar.
But when Benjamin Halloran's cross was spilled by Thailand 'keeper Wasan Narsuan,
Babalj was there to prod home the winner.
"Thailand made things difficult for us once again, they are a very disciplined side
and have a few excellent technical players," Young Socceroos coach Jan Versleijen
said.
"Credit must go to not only the players but to the whole staff as to win this
championship we had to play four tough games in seven days in hot and humid
conditions."
The AFF Championships formed part of Australia's preparation for the Asian Youth
Championships in October.