Socceroos heroes past and present celebrate

The Socceroos of 1973 and 2013 joined to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Australia’s qualification for its first FIFA World Cup.

Today was an emotional day for the Socceroos as they came face to face with Australia-s football heroes of yesteryear.

On the 40th anniversary of Australia-s qualification for its first FIFA World Cup, the Socceroos heroes of 1973 and 2013 joined to celebrate the country-s first great football achievement.

“It is a truly humbling experience to be in the presence of these people because they-re what-s driven me for the last 40-odd years in my career - a real passion for the game thta was given to me,” said Socceroos coach Ange Postecoglou.

On the field preparations for next week-s friendly continued at Kogarah, with coach Postecoglou having almost all of his squad on board for his most intense session yet.

“Definitely there was a lot of enthusiasm at training this morning, I think that comes automatic with a new coach and every one wants to impress,” said striker Josh Kennedy.

Off the field, the team have also met with supporters at a Westfield promotion and have been fitted out in suits from MJ Bale in preparation for next year-s FIFA World Cup.

All has amounted to a busy week for Postecoglou-s charges, who will carry the sentimentality of today-s event into Tuesday-s clash in Sydney.

“We start with winning and we work backwards,” said Postecoglou.

“There-s a game there and there-s a game to be won and they-re going to be a tough opponent, they-ve already qualified for the FIFA World Cup and we-re going to have to be able to compete against teams like that in six to eight months time.

“Obviously I don-t have a lot of time with them but I-m still confident we-ll see some foundations laid and certainly the message will be to go out there and try and win a game of football on our home ground.”

Upcoming Match Details

Socceroos vs Costa Rica Tuesday 19 November 2013 Allianz Stadium, Sydney Kick Off: 7.30pm Gates Open: 6.00pm

The match will be broadcast live and exclusive on FOX SPORTS.

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