Newcastle boss Eddie Howe defended his team selection after their 8-0 thrashing by the A-League Allstars.
The showpiece event turned into farce in Melbourne on Friday night.
But Howe said: "We can only do what we can do. To play three games in no time at all with 24 hours of travelling is too much to expect.
"I have to protect the players especially with next season in mind. It is disappointing to lose any game. But I think you have to put it in context. There is no part of me that will dwell on that. It is all about next season now.
"When you are out here you have to give it your best. You have got to enjoy it and be all in. And try to get the most out of the trip.
"Now we have the pleasure of the journey back which is something we have to go through. It will be good to get back on home soil and start preparing for next season."
