Losing balance: Australian player Tom Pondeljak (left) falls to the ground after trying to win the ball from Ali Isnan of Indonesia. Playing in Jakarta’s imposing Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, the Socceroos eked out a goalless draw with the host country. (JP/R. Berto Wedhatama)

Poor finishing was to blame as attacking Indonesia had to be content with a 0-0 draw against Australia in their AFC Asian Cup 2011 qualifying match here Wednesday.

The Red-and-White squad displayed domination with an offensive strategy that saw a number of close calls, but none of the buildups ended in a clear cutting edge against the second-tier crop of Socceroos.

Australia, ranked 29 in the world compared to Indonesia at 144, dispatched its second-string players for the game, with its Europe-based stars not making the trip.

It was Indonesia’s second goalless draw in as many matches, after last week’s tie against Oman in Muscat.

“I’m happy to get a draw,” national coach Benny Dollo said after the match.

“I’m glad our players had much confidence and showed a good mentality playing against a world-class squad like Australia.”

While admitting the finishing was poor, Benny said his strategy to minimize chances for the visitors to assemble attacks “worked out well”.

“I thought nothing went wrong, all the sides of our game were beyond decent. But unfortunately, no goals came of it,” he said.

The Indonesian squad opted for an attacking game from the start, attempting sharp maneuvers particularly in the first half as their opponents were forced to go on the defensive and allowed to build only a few, but far more effective and threatening attacks.

Indonesian striker Abdul Mushafry Talaohu confidently blasted a shot on goal in the 35th minute, but narrowly missed the target.

Another attacking move in the 12th minute of the second half saw striker Budi Sudarsono loop

a header only to find it quickly snuffed out by goalkeeper Josip Eugen Galekovic.

Australia nearly scored three minutes later, but goalkeeper Markus Horison Rihihina, who had been well tested throughout the game, proved once again his commendable speed and observation.

“We certainly showcased better offense and defense against Australia than when we did in Muscat. But again, the Australian [players] are better trained, better facilitated and higher in the rankings,” Benny said.

Indonesia and Australia are in Group B, alongside Kuwait and Oman in the qualification.

Other results:

Singapore 2 Jordan 1

Thailand  0  Iran 0

Popular

Indonesia should think twice about joining BRICS and OECD

Kebaya, Reog Ponorogo now listed as UNESCO cultural heritage

Surviving via 'VCS': Indonesians turn to virtual sex work amid COVID-19