Aaron Mooy’s introduction to Tim Cahill’s winner: moments that defined Socceroo’s play-off win against Syria

FROM Aaron Mooy’s early introduction off the bench to a red card in extra-time: the moments that defined Australia’s dramatic play-off victory over Syria.

Socceroos Tim Cahill Tom Rogic had contrasting nights in front of goal.

FROM Aaron Mooy’s early introduction off the bench to a red card in extra-time: the moments that defined Australia’s dramatic play-off victory over Syria.

MATCH REPORT: Cahill the Socceroos’ saviour again

ANALYSIS: Only fate righted the wrong of Mooy’s benching

AS IT HAPPENED: Relive our minute-by-minute match blog

PLAYER RATINGS: Who shone and who wilted on the big stage

MOOY ON

It was the talking point before kick off — how could the best player be left on the bench? Fortunately — or unfortunately if you’re Brad Smith — it only took 10 minutes for Aaron Mooy to be introduced. From that point on he was at the heart of almost all the Socceroos attacks.

Aaron Mooy coming off the bench after 10 minutes changed the game.

SYRIA TAKE THE LEAD

Barely six minutes into game and it was panic stations when Syria took the lead. It was an excellent finish by Al Soma and his celebrations were celebrated by the hundreds of delirious Syrian fans inside the stadium. For Australia, stunned silence.

ROGIC CHANCES

Tom Rogic had one of his best performances for the Socceroos, but just couldn’t capitalise on the best of the chances that fell his way. He had a double opportunity in the 69th minute, then again a minute before the end of regulation time when his effort flashed just wide of the goal. It was the last opportunity before the game went into extra time.

SYRIA SEES RED

The Socceroos were handed an early extra time advantage when Mahmoud Almawas saw red for his studs up challenge on Robbie Kruse. Suddenly, gratefully, the Socceroos were up against 10 tired men and eventually found a way through.

Tim Cahill proved to be Australia’s World Cup saviour once again.

TIMMY TIME

He might be 37, but if you’re going to bet on anyone to step up and score crucial goals — and both with his head too — it would be Tim Cahill. First to put the Socceroos ahead, then to send Australia a step closer to the World Cup. It was also his 50th goal for the Socceroos and he made it look easy. As he does. Can he play forever?