Nottingham Forest striker Chris Wood played for New Zealand against Australia Friday night in West London. The All Whites were defeated 2-0 by the Socceroos at Brentford Community Stadium.
In the game that took place on English soil, New Zealand had a rather dreary night. Australia won the Soccer Ashes trophy for the second time in 21 years, having previously been defeated by New Zealand.
Last night, Wood received his 70th cap for his country. This happened just days after he scored a late equalizer for the All Whites in a 1-1 draw with DR Congo.
Forest striker Wood was left disappointed after the international setback.
Forest striker Wood had a miserable outing. He played 81 minutes in this match, and a lot of New Zealand and Australian media sources praised his effort.
According to the New Zealand Herald, the team has been “unable to utilize the threat of Wood,” with the player having a “frustrating night” in terms of the service he was given.
The Australian broadcaster ABC also commented on Wood’s performance. In the 29th minute, they reported that Wood had been ‘kept very quiet,’ with the Socceroos stifling any possible chances for him.
Wood will be hoping to keep his spot this weekend.
The 31-year-old will now return to Forest, where he will look to score in the Premier League this weekend. The Reds play Luton Town, and Steve Cooper will want his team to win again.
Wood has only scored one goal for Forest this season. His goal will be to demonstrate that he is capable of filling the role left vacant by Taiwo Awoniyi’s injury.
In January, Forest paid £15 million for Wood. He has struggled with injury since joining, limiting him to just two goals for the Reds in his time at the City Ground.
Last night’s comments say it all. Wood can be valuable, but only if he is put to use. With Forest aiming to play on the front foot more regularly, it’s critical that they get the ball into Wood to make the most of his best qualities.
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