Tommy Smith and Monty Patterson’s New Zealand were comfortably beaten 2-0 by hosts Russia in the opening game of the Confederations Cup in St Petersburg.

A Michael Boxall own goal on 31 set the Russians - who were watched by their president Vladimir Putin - on their way and Fedor Smolov added the second in the 69th minute.

Smith, who was winning his 33rd full cap and has scored two international goals, started and played the full 90 minutes.

The 27-year-old came closest to netting for the All Whites with a powerful 78th minute header from a corner which was cleared off the line.

Patterson, 20, won his 12th cap when he came off the bench in the 84th minute as New Zealand chased the game but was unable to add to his single international goal. Former Blues loanee Chris Wood skippered.

Patterson left, Smith second left

The All Whites are next in action against Mexico in Sochi on Wednesday and then face Portugal back in St Petersburg next Saturday.

Photo: Action Images

Seasider added 16:19 - Jun 18 Surprised that Vladimir Putin didn't play,as his photo opportunities show him as an all action guy lol!
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BroskiBeen added 18:53 - Jun 18 Good for Patterson to play against quality opponents at such a young age, thinks he has a lot of potential and should be interpreted into the first team this season
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