RYAN NELSEN
8/10
The big-hearted skipper was involved in everything and strong throughout. He reads the game expertly and pushed forward with determination when the cause demanded.
TOMMY SMITH
6.5/10
The Ipswich bench-warmer had a tough time dealing with Vladimir Weiss, but grew in confidence as the game went on. Most of
the Slovak attacks were down his flank.
LEO BERTOS
5/10
The Slovaks had done their research - they shut down New Zealand's most incisive man with numbers. He couldn't break through, but defended sharply when needed.
SIMON ELLIOTT
7.5/10
The influential midfielder had a terrific first half and was targeted by the Slovaks with nasty challenges.
SHANE SMELTZ
8/10
Worked a brilliant one-two in the 37th minute that finished with a decent strike. Fluffed a great chance in the 87th minute. He delivered the best ball of the match for Reid's goal.
RORY FALLON
5/10
The big man made himself a nuisance in the air early on, but gave away too many easy fouls for infringements in the air. He'll need to tidy that up to maximise his value to the team.
CHRIS KILLEN
6.5/10
A handful of early shots gave his team the an psychological boost. Better movement than the other strikers, but found himself tracking back too deep to gather the ball.
MARK PASTON
4.5/10
Had a couple of soft touches early to get his confidence up, then had three shockers to round out the first half, including a genuine Robert Green moment. Can't be blamed for the goal.
IVAN VICELICH
6/10
A quiet first half for the reborn midfielder who was drawn to deeper areas. Found himself too close to Simon Elliott and cramped for room when the Slovaks closed down the midfield space as the game went on.
WINSTON REID
9/10
A bona fide hero. Made a superb goal-saving tackle in the 68th minute and snatched the nation's first World Cup point at the death. A biscuit tin moment to savour.
TONY LOCHHEAD
6/10
A bright start to the game. Delivered some of the more troubling balls in to the Slovak box. Got flustered and was caught out defensively, but the yellow card was harsh.
SUBSTITUTES:
Chris Wood on 71min for Killen. One poor touch, tracked back well 6/10
Jeremie Christie on at 77min for Vicelich. Too late to get involved. 5/10 Compiled by
