Japan’s draw helps Aussies

THE Socceroos’ bid for direct World Cup qualification has been boosted by Asian rivals Japan being held to a 1-1 draw against Iraq in Tehran.

Group B leaders Japan’s failure to take full points yesterday has them on 17 points, with Australia one point behind Samurai Blue in third.

Saudi Arabia sit in second spot, equal with the Socceroos on points but with a superior goal difference despite Australia’s 3-2 win in Adelaide last week.

The top two automatically qualify.