Cahill spares Australia's blushes

MELBOURNE // A 73rd-minute Tim Cahill goal gave Australia a 1-0 win over Oman in an Asian Cup qualifier today, boosting their chances of reaching the 2011 finals in Qatar. Cahill was on hand at the far post to tap in a cross from Scott Chipperfield which was flicked on by Josh Kennedy. It was the Everton midfielder's 19th goal in 36 international appearances for the Socceroos. The win lifted Australia off the bottom of Group B and onto level terms with Oman with four points from three matches. Kuwait and Indonesia face each other Thursday in their third fixture, and have three and two points respectively. The top two teams qualify.

* AP