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New Zealand U23s draw positives from narrow Indonesia defeat

Chris Killen played 75 minutes and Simon Elliott came off the bench for the last half hour, with New Zealand U23s coach Stu Jacobs pleased with the introduction of the two over-age players.

"It's really encouraging. Chris gave us a great platform up top. He's a seasoned pro playing in one of the best leagues in the world and gives us the ability to go forward off his play," Jacobs said.

"Simon's been chomping at the bit to play but we're just holding him back a wee bit yet. His organisation, quality and experience showed when he came on and even in training he's taking the sessions up a level."

Jacobs continued, "We came away with plenty of positives. We finished the game really well, had three or four gilt-edged chances and for the last 15 or 20 minutes the Indonesians weren't even in it," Jacobs said.

"I think physically we're right there, we just need to turn those nearlies into goals.

"Indonesia were a step up from the Olyroos and the Mariners but I'm pleased with the way we competed against a senior national team.

"We created some really good opportunities from some promising passages of play. We were getting the ball into Killy's feet and our wide players played really well. They had two very sharp players up front but our players coped with what they had."

The Oly-Whites finish their Olympic build-up with a match against Indonesian Super League club Persija Jakarta on Saturday night.

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