Auckland City goalscorer on 'dream' result against Boca Juniors
Auckland City FC defender Christian Gray has described his goal-scoring experience at the FIFA Club World Cup as "somewhat of a dream".
The 28-year-old trainee teacher scored in the amateur side's clash against Argentine giants Boca Juniors, which ended in a 1-1 draw. Gray also took the Player of the Match award.
Following this morning's game, Gisborne-born Gray said: "I'm from a small town, a long way from here and a lot different to this environment. So, it is somewhat of a dream,"
The draw was a positive ending to a tough campaign for Auckland, which entered the competition as the only non-professional side. In their opening match, the team suffered a 10-0 thrashing against German Giants Bayern Munich and a 6-0 loss to Portugal's Benfica.
'It's been a tough trip, we've had some tough results, but [I'm] just happy for the team, for the boys,' Gray said.
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He hoped "we got a little bit of respect back" with today's result. "I think we deserve it."
Today's result meant "a lot" for everyone involved with the Kiwitea St Club.
"We don't have a lot of money, so I'm just happy that they're happy."
He said it was "a little bit" of an overwhelming moment.
"I don't love the spotlight, leave that for the other boys… [I'm] a little bit lost for words."
With the tournament having ended for Auckland, Gray said it was time to get home and get back into the classroom.
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"I've got a few assignments that have piled up over the last month, so that's what I'll be going to."
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