Soccer Australia boss Remo Nogarotto has challenged England to a rematch after the Socceroos' 3-1 victory at Upton Park.

With England still reeling from the result - and players refusing to exchange shirts after the game - Nogarotto said he wants a game in Sydney as soon as the FA can arrange it.

"This should be the start of a new era for the sport in Australia," said Nogarotto.

"We came of age. The team came of age, and the game came of age. Put this down as the first chapter in the renaissance.

"We have issued a challenge for another game between us to take place in Sydney as soon as they can fit it in their national programme."

It doesn't matter what anyone says - history will show that Australia beat England Frank Farina

Meanwhile, coach Frank Farina rounded on the critics who have tried to play down the significance of Australia's win.

"The mileage we'll get out of this win in terms of promotion of the game will be enormous," said Farina.

"In terms of importance, it's a wonderful start to our preparation for 2006 (World Cup qualifying)- and we hope it will enable us to get games against some of the better teams going round the world.

Farina attempted to quell suggestions that England were treating the game as a practice match by pointing to the disappointment felt by the home players.

"I don't think anyone changed jerseys at the end of the game," he said.

"They've taken it very hard. They're professional footballers, and nobody likes to lose.

"It doesn't matter what anyone says - history will show that Australia beat England, simple as that."

Farina will now concentrate on his plans to establish a permanent Socceroo base in or near London.