Indonesia To Play Australia To Support Tsunami Dis

Football Federation Australia today announced that the Socceroos would play Indonesia in Perth on March 29 with proceeds going towards victims of the Asian Tsunami disaster.

Football Federation Australia today announced that the Socceroos would play Indonesia in Perth on March 29 with proceeds going towards victims of the Asian Tsunami disaster.   "The Asian Football Confederation nominated Indonesia for this match and we are delighted to accept," said FFA CEO Mr John O'Neill from Perth where he attended the launch of Hyundai A-League club Perth Glory.   "Indonesia was heavily affected by the tsunami.  There was a huge loss of life and we are pleased that we can follow the lead of the federal government by supporting our neighbours."   "Perth was seen as the ideal choice to host the match considering their close proximity to Indonesia."   "I'd like to acknowledge the support of the WA Events corporation for their willingness to assist in the staging of this international match.  It's been a decade since the Australian team has played in Perth and we are certain there will be a big appetite for international football in Western Australia."   The Socceroos will have two home matches during the Easter period with an international against Iraq at Telstra Stadium on Saturday March 26 followed by the clash with Indonesia which is likely to be at Subiaco Oval on Tuesday March 29.   "The two matches over the Easter period give us further chances to engage with our Asian neighbours," said Mr O'Neill.   "We have two national teams coming to Australia after much turmoil in their homelands and we look forward to welcoming them here."   Mr O'Neill confirmed that funds from the match would go into the FIFA/AFC solidarity fund which was established just after the disaster.   The fund was created to concentrate on reconstructing the footballing infrastructure in the affected areas including the rebuilding of pitches and supply of equipment.   Australia (ranked 58th) has played Indonesia (ranked 91st) on 12 occasions with the Australians holding a 9 wins, two draws and one loss record.