Semi-final heartache for Aussies

Goals from Hussain Al-Eisa and Ayman Yahya secured the Saudi Arabians a berth in the final against tournament hosts Uzbekistan, who beat Japan 2-0 in the other semi-final.Trailing 1-0 after Al-Eisa’s 20th-minute goal, the Australians were denied an equaliser on the half-hour mark when captain Tyrese Francois’ volley hit the crossbar.Worse was to follow for Australia’s under-23 team when defender Jay Rich-Baghuelou was sent off six minutes before halftime for kicking out at Yahya.The Saudi Arabian attacker recovered to double his side’s lead in the 72nd minute.The Australians had a chance pull a goal back in stoppage time via a penalty, but Ramy Najjarine’s spot kick was saved by goalkeeper Nawaf Al-Aqidi.In what was a lengthy stoppage-time period, Saudi Arabia also had a chance soon after to increase its lead from the penalty spot, but Australian custodian Joe Gauci saved Abdullah Radif’s effort.Interim Australian under-23 coach Trevor Morgan said: “Losing a player in the first half didn’t do us any favours.“I’m disappointed with the scoreline as it’s not a t

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