Sydney United striker Mirza Muratovic dedicated his side’s Milk Cup Junior Section opening victory to his mum back in Australia.
Muratovic put the Australian side ahead inside 9 minutes after Dundalk failed to clear the ball in their box.
Sydney United midfielder Jacob Gjorsevski doubled the lead after 14 minutes when he dispossessed a Dundalk defender, and tapped into an empty net after coolly rounding the rushing goalkeeper.
Dundalk SL controlled most of the ball in the second half, but were unable to force any clear-cut opportunities. Captain Daniel Corcoran was left frustrated after he watched his header from a corner go straight into the arms of the opposition goalkeeper 10 minutes into the second half.
Sydney United were able to claim the win but had to absorb relentless Dundalk SL pressure, including a late surge.
Muratovic said: “My goal today was for my mum at home who was unable to make it.
“I wouldn’t be here without her support.”
The win means Sydney have got off to the perfect start with three points and a clean sheet.
Muratovic said: “I couldn’t ask for anything more today.
“I want us to make a name for ourselves in this tournament, and if we keep collecting wins, that is exactly what we are going to do.”
Dundalk put Sydney on the back-foot from the start of the game, forcing the keeper into a reaction save inside three minutes. However, Sydney soon regrouped and took control of the match and pressed high which forced defensive errors, leading to both goals.
The Irish side also had a positive start to the second half, fizzing a shot just wide of the post. However, the Australians looked dangerous on the counter-attack and were able to see out the victory at the Riada 2 stadium.
Nathan Webb