Coach Darren Bazeley was equally disappointed and bemused. He had been happy with the training standards during the week but it wasn’t reflected in the match, particularly in a timid first 45 minutes when Finland took control.
“We didn’t look like ourselves,” said Bazeley. “We weren’t as good in possession, weren’t as composed or controlled in our buildup. And out of possession, we were just off the pace a little bit, which allowed them to control the ball really.”
Finland took the lead through a header from captain Joel Pohjanpalo in the 25th minute after he got free at the far post, losing two defenders, the kind of scenario that could be terminal in June at the World Cup.
“It can’t happen – and it hasn’t happened,” said Bazeley. “That’s why it feels like it’s quite an unusual performance from us, we’ve been really strong at defending set plays.”
From there Finland were in control. The All Whites improved considerably in the second half but the European side had the better chances, before Janakko Oksanen wrapped up the victory in the 85th minute.
All White Ben Old’s performance was one of the few bright spots in the game against Finland at Eden Park on Friday. Photo / Shane Wenzlick / www.photosport.nz
Old made his presence felt with an energetic display, showing the benefits of his recent run of games at St Etienne. He felt good in front of a hometown crowd, even though he wasn’t satisfied with the output.
“Personally, I’m disappointed,” said Old. “I did have some really good moments, whether it was me shooting or creating. I don’t think I quite had that final product.”
Along with Old, second-half substitute Jesse Randall was another bright spot, as he ran, hustled and hurried, while creating one of the best local chances with a clever feint and dummy.
“He was a spark,” agreed Bazeley. “He looked lively.”
Bazeley didn’t think Finland were targeting the right flank but they profited in that area with Tim Payne having a difficult night. Fellow fullback Francis de Vries left the field with a calf strain just before halftime, which could have ramifications for Auckland FC.
Ryan Thomas may also have a slight injury niggle before Monday’s match (7.15pm) against Chile. Bazeley needs, and expects, his team to bounce back against the South Americans.
“That’s the beauty of football,” said Bazeley. “They get an opportunity to come back pretty quickly.”
Michael Burgess has been a Sports Journalist for the New Zealand Herald since 2005, covering the Olympics, Fifa World Cups, and America’s Cup campaigns. He is a co-host of the Big League podcast.