A trio of MLS players featured in one of the burgeoning soccer rivalries in the world of soccer on Sunday.
Despite the contributions of Vancouver Whitecaps defender Michael Boxall, Chivas USA center back Andrew Boyens and Portland Timbers goalkeeper Jake Gleeson, New Zealand were downed 3-0 by Australia in a match played in rainy and wet conditions in Adelaide, Australia.
Socceroos forward Josh Kennedy netted the first two goals, including a ninth-minute opener, before James Troisi’s penalty kick rounded out the final result in stoppage time.
Media reports highlighted the strong play of Boxall in central defense. The Whitecaps player went the full 90, while Boyens started and came off at halftime. Gleeson earned his first international cap when he came on as a substitute with 13 minutes to play.
It was the second consecutive 3-0 loss suffered by New Zealand in the last four days, after Mexico thumped the All Whites in a match played in Denver.
