S.Korea outclass Australia

South Korea outclassed Australia 3-1 in a friendly on Saturday in what coach Huh Jung-Moo said was a useful work-out ahead of next year’s World Cup.

The South Koreans, who in June won their seventh consecutive berth at the World Cup finals, quickly gained control against the Socceroos when Park Chu-Young scored after only four minutes.

The hosts doubled their advantage on 20 minutes when Lee Jang-Soo scored from close range.

Australia, who also qualified for South Africa next year, struck back in the 33rd minute when Patrick Kisnorbo headed home a free-kick.

But South Korea’s Seol Ki-Hyeon headed in a cross from Manchester United star and national captain Park Ji-Sung in the 87th minute to make the game safe.

“Australia is a team that is on a level with European teams in terms of having a strong defence,” coach Huh was quoted by Yonhap news agency as saying.

“The match gave us an opportunity to examine what we should do in facing teams of such level and what areas to supplement.”

The South Koreans finished the World Cup Asian qualifying round on top, while North Korea and Japan also reached the finals.