Australian media hail national team's flying start to the Asian Cup

Australia celebrate Tim Cahill’s goal against Kuwait in the Asian Cup

Sydney, January 10 (IANS)

The Australian media Saturday praised the national football team for defeating Kuwait 4-1 in the opening game of the Asian Cup on Friday but refused to get carried away with the victory.

"The most goals in a game under Ange Postecoglou gave us a taste of the future in the 4-1 triumph over Kuwait, but it wasn't without its warnings," the Daily Telegraph said, referring particularly to the nervous start and shaky defending which saw Kuwait take the lead, reports Xinhua.

Australia fell behind to a header from Hussain Fadhel, but recovered with first half goals from Tim Cahill and Massimo Luongo before Mile Jedinak and James Troisi secured the points after the break.

The Sydney Morning Herald said the team had made a "flying start" to its campaign and had "outclassed" the opposition after an early scare.

And the newspapers were unanimous in praising midfielder Luongo, playing only his fifth international and first in Australia, for turning the match with an assist and a goal before half-time.

Meanwhile, The Age gave credit to coach Ange Postecoglou, who had previously been criticised for a poor run of form.

The paper claimed the team were showing glimpses of his vision finally taking hold with a 4-1-4-1 formation allowing five players to push forward into attacking positions.

"The Asian Cup has begun, and for Australia, it couldn't have started any better." it said.