Honduras v Australia, World Cup play-off first leg: live

THE Socceroos failed to take their chances but emerged with a credible 0-0 draw in Honduras, with the World Cup playoff now set for a nervy decider in Sydney.

THE Socceroos failed to take their chances but emerged with a credible 0-0 draw in Honduras, with the World Cup playoff now set for a nervy decider in Sydney.

Much was made of the importance of the visitors keeping their heads early on in this match, yet it was the Hondurans who seemed to buckle under the pressure of playing in front of 40,000 home fans. The Socceroos had the best chances, and Tomi Juric should have scored, though he wasn’t helped by the bobble on the cow paddock. Scandalous that the Hondurans trained on it during the week, and no doubt that’s contributed to its horrendous state, in addition to the epic overnight rainfall in Honduras. Ange Postecoglou would’ve been delighted with the first half. Trent Sainsbury was outstanding and Mile Jedinak’s poise was vital, while Massimo Luongo and Aaron Mooy bossed the midfield. Stick around after the match for player ratings, analysis and all the fallout from San Pedro Sula.