All Whites captain Ryan Nelsen appeals to the referee after Italy was awarded a penalty during their match in Nelspruit. Photo / Brett Phibbs
All Whites player ratings from their shock World Cup draw with defending champions Italy.
RYAN NELSEN 8/10
Once again, The Rock was unyielding. Knew just when to put his foot in and marshalled the troops effectively. A great clearance in the 72nd minute.
TOMMY SMITH 6/10
A mostly sound defensive
performance. He was perhaps unlucky to see De Rossi's over-acting rewarded, but the Kiwi defender was clearly at fault.
LEO BERTOS 7.5/10
Found more space to dart into than the Slovaks allowed and ran with dangerous intent, but was caught out defensively more than once.
SIMON ELLIOTT 7.5/10
Another top effort from the once-maligned Elliott. Couple of gem free kicks, including the one that gave goal.
SHANE SMELTZ 9/10
A dream start. Was he offside? Of course. Do we care? Not a jot. Aside from the goal, his passing was inch perfect, he found space well and ran all day.
RORY FALLON 5/10
Was again ineffective in the air when his height should be such an advantage. Italians could bank on free kicks from him. Couldn't have any argument with the yellow card.
CHRIS KILLEN 6/10
A subdued day. Had a tough time finding any room to make himself available against some of the world's best defenders.
MARK PASTON 9/10
A superb day to file alongside the memories of his penalty save against Bahrain. Was assured on the crosses and brilliant on shot-stopping. Stunning save from Montolivo in the 69th minute.
IVAN VICELICH 7.5/10
Another quiet first half, but a mighty presence in the second, including a terrific dig at goal and some superb interventions at the back. Odd to take him off when Elliot seemed tired.
WINSTON REID 7.5/10
Got the flick on that lead to Smeltz's goal and was classy throughout. Took the Italians on in the face-clutching histrionics competition with no reward.
TONY LOCHHEAD 5/10
Another busy defensive day as much of the Italian thrust looked to his flank. Few chances to push forward. Gave away a silly free kick in the 55th minute.
SUBSTITUTES:
Chris Wood on 62min for Fallon. A great shot. 7.5/10
Jeremy Christie on at 80min for Vicelich. Little action. 5/10
Andy Barron on at 92min for Killen.
