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Aussies to test patience in return for three points

Although the Socceroos have easily accounted for Qatar in their last two encounters, coach Pim Verbeek knows it won't be that simple this time in. Verbeek understands the importance of the home fixture as the Aussies then play two away matches and believes the key is not to get too carried away and to be patient. "We all know how important the game tomorrow is, because we start two away games after this game, Bahrain away and Japan away," Verbeek told the Herald Sun yesterday. "So we all know that we need three points tomorrow. "On one hand we have to take risks and score goals, and as early as possible. On the other hand you have to be very alert that they don't surprise you and score. "So it's all about the balance. How much risk are we going to take to win this game? "My players know they will have to be patient. It is not about (scoring) in 45 minutes or 30 minutes. It is about 90 minutes." Verbeek is expected to start strikers Josh Kennedy and Scott McDonald up front, whilst Tim Cahill returns to a midfield already boasting David Carney and Brett Emerton. Jason Culina may play in his customary role in front of the defensive four which is likely to include the returning Craig Moore. When quizzed on whether or not Moore would start, Verbeek said, "We all know Craig's qualities and he's good in the group. It's good to have him back. "It is a luxury to have players like that back in your selection."

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Andrew Slevison
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Andrew Slevison

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