Soccer: NZ under-20 draw final dress rehearsal

Colin Murphy of New Zealand. Photo / Getty Images

The Junior All Whites have drawn 1-1 with USL club Southern California in their final outing ahead of the under-20 soccer World Cup.

New Zealand's sole goal today came from midfielder Colin Murphy, who collected a pass from Ethan Galbraith before rifling his side into the lead in the 59th minute.

As in an earlier 1-2 loss to Ventura County the national age group side's finishing did not match their creativity and Southern California made them pay with a 89th minute goal to level the scores.

The Junior All Whites are due to arrive in Colombia tomorrow, a week ahead of their opening World Cup match against Cameroon.

Coach Chris Milicich is happy with the American leg of his team's build-up.

"It's been invaluable preparation," Milicich said.

"It's been hot and the players have had to play in difficult conditions against difficult opposition.

"Today, Southern California brought 23 players and rattled them on and off, meaning we were always playing against 11 fresh players."

Result:

New Zealand under-20 1 (Colin Murphy) Southern California 1. Halftime: 0-0.

- NZPA