BRISBANE, June 1 (Reuters) - Harry Kewell scored just after

halftime to give Australia a 1-0 win over Iraq in their 2010

World Cup qualifier in Brisbane on Sunday.

The former Liverpool player was in outstanding form and was

at the heart of most of the Socceroos' goal-scoring chances

until being replaced with 13 minutes to go.

Both sides missed a string of opportunities in the first

half, but Kewell made no mistake two minutes into the second

when he headed a pinpoint Brett Emerton cross past Iraqi

goalkeeper Noor Sabri.

Australia dominated possession but had to withstand a

storming finish from Iraq, who had three clear chances in the

closing minutes.

The win moved Australia to seven points in their qualifying

group. Second-placed Qatar (three points) play third-placed

China (two points) on Monday.

Iraq, the reigning Asia Cup champions, remain rooted to the

bottom of the table with their dream of qualifying for South

Africa in 2010 all but over.