After two thrashings and a week of criticism the Socceroos have finally lifted their game.

They beat the lower rated Canada three nil in a friendly match in London.

Rachel Riga reports.

TRANSCRIPT

The Socceroos have rebounded from horror 6-0 defeats to Brazil and France finally winning a match this morning.

The team needed something to relieve the pressure and it came in the first minute.

After the three point win, Captain Lucas Neill praised his teammates.

He’d attracted controversy over comments about the dedication of some of the younger players earlier in the week.

Lucas Neill, Socceroos Captain: “It’s never been about me, it’s about the team. When the Socceroos win, Lucas Neill doesn’t get the credit and equally when the Socceroos lose, Lucas Neill can’t take all the blame.”

Caretaker coach Aurelio Vidmar has been tipped to become the team’s new coach following the sacking of Holger Osieck.

And overnight Australian’s best female athletes were honoured at the Women in Sport Awards.

Professional surfer Sally Fitzgibbons is Sports Woman of the Year.

Sally Fitzgibbons, Sports Woman of the Year: “I was a sport fanatic and I was just here enjoying the night and then to end up with the mayor prize is.. I’m just stoked as we say as surfers.”

The Prime Minister’s award was presented to Olympic rowing champion Kim Crow.

Rachel Riga, QUT News.