Michael Woud has reflected on a memorable U20 World Cup qualification campaign which saw New Zealand seal their place at Korea Republic 2017.
The Kiwis proved to be a formidable nation throughout and rounded off their campaign with a stunning 5-0 victory over hosts Vanuatu to book their place at next summer's tournament and clinch their sixth Oceania Football Confederations title.
Scoring goal after goal at one end, New Zealand built around a core defensive structure and conceded just twice in five games as Woud was named the tournaments best goalkeeper.
Speaking to safc.com the Sunderland under-18s stopper shared his immense pride and admitted his nations success means more than his personal achievement.
“It’s always good to win a tournament but especially when it’s for your country,” he said.
“It’s a proud moment to win the golden glove for myself but the main thing was to win the tournament and we did that.
“It’s always a bonus to be awarded with a personal accolade like the golden glove but qualifying for next year's world cup was the most important thing.
“It has been a good period for me and I think my success is down to hard work and listening to coaches like Mark Prudhoe,” he continued.
“Every coach I have had has helped me improve and that has made me better as a footballer and a person.”
