With New Zealand defeated 5-1 in their first leg World Cup qualifier on Mexican soil, head coach Ricki Herbert made several changes to his side.

Roux came in at right back to receive his first cap at senior level, handling himself well.

“It was amazing to play,” Roux said.

“Very good and a massive honour to get my first cap. Ricki was happy I think; we knew we were outclassed but I think he was very proud of the fight and desire we showed to play.”

The All Whites went behind 3-0 in the first 33 minutes thanks to an Oribe Peralta hat-trick, but the hosts did hit back with second-half goals to Chris James and Rory Fallon. Mexico’s Carlos Alberto Pena completed the scoring in the 86th minute.

“I was pretty happy with my game, for playing such a good side and on my debut, I was pleased with myself,” Roux added.

“Of course we were all very disappointed and upset not to qualify because everyone dream’s of playing at a World Cup.”

Roux was back at the Mariners and played 90 minutes in the club’s dramatic 2-1 win over Perth Glory.

Mitchell Duke scored in injury-time to give Phil Moss his first A-League victory as head coach.

The 20-year old defender, who was signed to the Mariners by Graham Arnold, says the transition from Arnold to Moss has been smooth.

“I think the boys have taken it well," Roux said. "Coaches move on and you have to deal with it.

“Mossy’s a very good coach and has been at Mariners a long time so it’s not hard to adjust. The boys have all reacted well.”Â