Owen happy to avoid Bafana skin

Last updated : 23 May 2003 By Chris Maxwell
The Reds striker failed to add to his tally of 20 international goals but he was pleased to leave South Africa with a victory ahead of the Euro 2004 qualifier with Slovakia.

Owen said: "It was important for the spirit of team - we may have to come here and play in the World Cup at some stage so it's important experience.

"I thought we played well considering we've come over here and not had a great preparation - considering what has gone before I thought it was a good performance.

"We don't get together that much and when we do we have got to make the most of it."