Australia’s World Cup goalkeeper Patrick Beach says he had no issue with being substituted out of the match against Egypt in the final minute so Mat Ryan could be in goal for the penalty shoot-out.
Australia lost the penalty shoot-out 2-4 and Ryan did not save any of Egypt’s attempts in the knockout stage as the Socceroos dropped out of the tournament. It was Ryan’s first appearance for the World Cup.
Coach Tony Popovic was criticised for making the call to replace Beach with the skipper as well as nominating teenager Lucas Herrington to take a penalty, which he missed.
But Beach said he was unperturbed when the decision was made and he did not require any explanation from the coach.
“[There was] no need for a chat in regards to any of that,” Beach told reporters at Melbourne Airport on Monday. “He is the coach and he makes the call, and as players we respect him and respect his decisions and that’s that.”
Beach, who performed well after being a surprise selection to replace Ryan in the first match against Turkey, said he was “gutted” that the team could not progress further but also proud of their efforts to make the round of 32. He started in each of Australia’s four World Cup games and his performances were a tournament highlight for the Socceroos.
The 22-year-old said he had taken no notice of the criticism levelled at Popovic or Australia’s goalkeeping coach Frank Juric after the loss.
“[I] don’t read into any of that. Everyone is entitled to think what they want, [but] I have nothing but full respect for the boss and the coaching staff,” he said.
He said the World Cup was a step up in class, but he knew he would be able to perform well despite the occasion and associated pressure.
“I always have confidence in myself and I am a confident guy, [I] back my ability and know my role and what I have to do to help the team,” Beach said.
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