Two former Adelaide United FC stars have featured in the Qantas Socceroos’ win over South Korea.
Two former Adelaide United FC stars have featured in the Qantas Socceroos- win over South Korea.
Robert Cornthwaite, who made 139 appearances for the Reds across seven years at the club, was named man of the match in just his second cap for Australia-s national team.
The defender, who now plies his trade in the K-League (Korea-s best league), received a late call up to the squad just days before the game, but made the most of his opportunity as he was given a start alongside captain Lucas Neill in the heart of defence before scoring the winner in the 87th minute.
Attacking midfielder Mathew Leckie was the other former United player to play a role, the 21 year currently on loan with German club FSV Frankfurt. While it may not have been of the same impact as Cornthwaite, the exciting youngster, who quickly became a crowd favourite at Hindmarsh during his time at the Reds, was given his Socceroos debut as he came on late in the game.
“I think it-s a very positive result for the team,” Cornthwaite said to Fox Sports after the game.
“Obviously we had limited preparations, we didn-t get the whole squad together until Monday night, so we only got one training session together.”
“I think you could see that a bit in the first half but I think the second half was fantastic and the effort and work rate from the boys was first class.”
“It was great to see some younger guys get their first caps and I think it-s a positive thing for the country.”
Adelaide United FC congratulates Cornthwaite and Leckie on their selections for the Qantas Socceroos and hopes it is not the last time they are in the green and gold.
