KEY POINTS:
Two first-half concentration lapses in an otherwise solid performance cost the New Zealand men's Olympic soccer team the match against Chile at a rain-soaked Newtown Park in Wellington yesterday.
The Chileans, with a 4-3 win and 1-1 draw against the Australian Olympics team behind them, punished the Oly-Whites for those errors with goals in the 28th and 30th minutes through midfielder Felipe Seymour and rightback Marcelo Diaz.
New Zealand cut the deficit five minutes before halftime with a header by centreback Michael Boxall from fullback Cole Peverley's corner kick.
They will have another chance at the Chileans in the return match in Porirua tomorrow.
Earlier yesterday the Oly-Whites received the good news that Blackburn defender and captain Ryan Nelsen will be available to play in their two opening games at next month's Beijing Olympics.
The Oly-Whites found their feet much quicker than the South Americans, creating more shots and forcing more corners than the visitors.
"We've shown that we can compete with sides at this level but it's turning these nearly results into winning performances that is the key," New Zealand coach Stu Jacobs said.
"Given where we are in our build-up and the results Chile have just come off in Australia, there's a lot to be pleased with.
"The lads were put through a pretty hard testing session on Monday, had two sessions yesterday (Tuesday), and have done pretty well against a very good Chilean side.
"It sets us up really well for Friday night."
- NZPA
