Australia fought back from a goal down to lead 2-1 through goals from Luke WIlkshire from the spot and then Robbie Cornthwaite.

But the advantage was squandered in the final ten minutes when Romania struck twice to edge the game 3-2.

After the match Osieck admitted the fresh faces brought into the game in the second half had caused the upset - but only because players didn't finish the chances they created.

"Without blaming anyone, when we made a couple of changes, there's always a change in the game," he said.

"But it was always clear from the beginning that we would have the changes because I need to have a look at the players.

"This time it was at the expense of our victory but on the other hand, I think we had so many clear chances in the second half and we should have finished that off.

"But that is what you have to pay for if you don't score."

The Socceroos coach was still pleased with the performance of his squad ahead of next month's vital World Cup qualifier against Oman.

"All in all, I think, in the second half we did pretty well and showed great commitment and it was a very positive from that point of view," said Osieck.

"You look at the guys who will definitely play a very important role against Oman. We are lacking a position in defensive midfield and I think James Holland did very well.

"He definitely can be the option which is encouraging.

"Robbie Kruse did very well again - his runs were fantastic and set up his team mates but that little bit of extra was lacking in order to score.

"I was happy with Brett Holman who has had less game practice in recent games so he really worked hard for the team.

"He was full of energy and I think that game gave him another boost to get over his, let's say, miserable situation with his club."

Skipper Lucas Neill played for an hour despite being banned for the Oman game and provided the crucial knockdown for Cornthwaite to dig out and slot home for Australia's second goal.

Osieck was delighted by Cornthwaite's goal, but admitted the defence had shown worrying signs in the first half.

He added: "Robbie was a little bit shaky in the first half but the more the game went on, he was stabilising factor in defence and I think he had a good game all in all."