Socceroos’ unity call ahead of play-off

Sydney: Australian football chiefs called for unity as the dates were confirmed for their World Cup play-off against Honduras, with the team rattled by reports coach Ange Postecoglou could quit.

A brace from veteran striker Tim Cahill in a 2-1 win over Syria last week moved the Socceroos a step closer to a place at the 2018 Russia tournament.

They now need to negotiate a home-and-away play-off against Honduras — the fourth-placed team from the CONCACAF federation.

Postecoglou has declined to confirm or deny reports that he plans to step down after the critical Honduras showdown, overshadowing preparations. FFA chief David Gallop urged the country to get behind the team in their most important match in years.