NZ, New Caledonia prepare for World Cup qualifier
Updated
New Zealand soccer coach Ricki Herbert has made three changes for Wednesday's return World Cup qualifier against Oceania rivals, New Caledonia, in Auckland, Wednesday.
The All Whites have already cemented their place in next year's Confederation's Cup, the next phase in World Cup qualifying, with a 3-1 win over New Caledonia in Noumea four days ago.
In a straight swap, Mark Paston returns to play his 17th gams, pushing Glen Moss to the bench.
After missing the Noumea game through suspension, Tim Brown, who led the team to victory in the three opening Oceania Nations Cup outings, returns to midfield in place of Jeremy Brockie, who came in as a late replacement for injured Leo Bertos on Saturday.
Chris James, on as a late substitute in the first leg, comes in for Allan Pearce.
Herbert, is determined that the game should be a fitting tribute to the father of Oceania Football, Charlie Dempsey who died in June.
The Players will wear white armbands on their alternate white strip.
