Pete Relaunched - Again...

The group of death??

2010-06-13T23:56:00.000+10:00

Group D
Being bold here, 1. Germany, 2. Australia, 3. Ghana, 4. Serbia

Not sure why but just think that will be how it is.

Getting up for Aus will be good too.

Flashback
I think the form guide is still right for Groups B and C. Greece and Algeria may as well be going home now.
The only question is whether the US or Nigeria can get a result to go further.

Group A is a bit touch and go. I really thought Mexico would dominate, but if they play like they did the other night again, they might not even get through the group v France and Uruguay. Oh well, interesting times ahead.

Group B and C - a guide

2010-06-12T20:23:00.000+10:00

My tips are looking decidedly shaky after last night... but just for fun, lets do this again.

Group B - 1. Argentina, 2. Nigeria, 3. South Korea, 4. Greece

If any group deserves to be the group of death, it is probably this one and Group G. It has a South American powerhouse and arguably the best teams in Asia (they beat us in a friendly a few months back) and Africa. And the fourth team won the European Title a few years ago (which is more than can be said for England - see below group C). These games should be incredible, and worth watching all the way through.

Also I have an incentive to like Nigeria here, if they make the semis I will get some money back from my office sweep.

The outcome of this group probably turns on South Korea v Greece tonight. What happens there will shape what can happen otherwise. Thankfully they kick off at 9:30 PM.

Group C 1. England, 2. USA, 3. Slovenia, 4. Algeria

England v USA should decide who wins Group C and earns the right to play Australia in the Round of 16 (see I'm bullish). USA are in form, have lots of players even only taking a small group from a massive athletic talent pool, and probably need this if they are ever going to break into the big time. I still think England has the goods over them though.

Slovenia and Algeria will probably be making up the numbers, but I might be being slightly unfair.

Sth Africa v Mexico

2010-06-12T00:17:00.011+10:00

Welcome to Group A: South Africa, Mexico, France, Uruguay.

Tips for the next round: 1. Mexico, 2. France, 3. Uruguay given the way France qualified, I guess it depends on whether they handle themselves well for the three games. But this is running against history, with all host teams making the second round.
It is probable that a lot more will ride on the second game overnight... France v Uruguay will go a long way to indicating the end outcome of the group, though France are notoriously slow starters (eg. 2002 loss v Senegal, 2006 draw with Switzerland).

45 mins 0-0 half time. Seen enough to know the World Cup is on, time for some sleep. Mexico are a bit clunky on timing the runs in attack (with a few offsides) and also vulnerable at the back to high balls. South Africa are at risk from playing too narrow a defensive line, giving Mexico plenty of attacking space.

42 mins pressure build up from South Africa, highlighting how vulnerable a short Mexican keeper is, and only just missing an open header, followed up by another two corners... France and Uruguay might salivate watching this on tape later as they prepare for the next two games.

37 mins ball in net from Mexico, but good precise call on offside, second touch from the corner after the keeper went out to try to get it.

32 mins great save by South Africa's keeper, keeps them from letting the game get away from them.

26 mins Momentum time for South Africa, but as with most things it begins to change quickly.

20 mins loopy ball bounces over a South African attacker's head. Lots of random comments on this new techo ball...I'm 100% sure that I'll be sick of hearing about the ball by the end of the tournament.

18 mins Poor South Africa set play gives Mexico the chance to hit back on the rebound, almost scores.

14 mins Mexico getting quite a lot of space out wide, opportunities to create, but just not quite the necessary execution.

12 mins No big surprise, Mexico seems to have more class than the boys "Bafana Bafana".

Things can change though, but it seems after such a short time that this game will probably go one direction. The crowd noise is slightly irritating though.

Back to the World Cup

2010-06-11T13:16:00.000+10:00

This blog had its glory days in Australia's last World Cup Campaign.

On 11 June 2006 I relaunched the blog to allow live blogging coverage of the World Cup and all that is football.

Have a look back through the archives to relive those glorious achievements.

After a few dormant years, this blog will be firing again for the next four weeks. You will see it all here, so strap yourself in and get ready to go!

Had a Badd Day

2007-06-18T22:26:00.000+10:00

It only takes a few mistakes to ruin a dream tournament.

Unfortunately for Baddeley, they all came at once.

Watching seasoned professionals struggle with the US Open course was fun though. Made me feel less bad about my regular struggling on any golf course.

Happy Birthday to my Outspoken Sports Blog

2007-06-11T23:01:00.000+10:00

Sports blogging is overrated.

I've been doing this for a year, and all my faithful readers have decided to leave this site for something more interesting.

Well, on the eve of remembering Aloisi and Cahill correcting one of the greatest injustices in Australian footballing history against Japan (and then finding that more injustices were to come), I thought that it might be worth calling those faithful readers back for one last celebration.

The blog has gone downhill since Australia were bundled out of the FIFA World Cup, with only a minor resurgence for the Ashes, but we shall never forget that precious day, nor the person who rang my mobile twice at 1am to wish me a happy birthday and share the excitement of such an amazing final 10 minutes.

Those sorts of memories are much better than the ones that come from wankers who stop you watching Australia play Uruguay by putting up signs in front of your view during the play.

So thank you all, and if you are one of my faithful readers that I haven't seen in the flesh for a while, let's catch up.

St Ives FC

2007-04-15T15:53:00.000+10:00

For those of you who may be interested in my sporting exploits, The Emerald Green has been updated for the 2007 season (I am playing Division 7).

They also have an Emerald Green Blog, which I may occasionally contribute to.

Well worth a read.

Too busy to care

2007-04-04T22:32:00.000+10:00

I guess that sums up my attitude to the World Cup Cricket, and it looks a fairly popular one.

At the moment I have noticed that following it is too much of a hassle, and blogging it seems pointless.

Oh well, leave a comment if you want me to blog some more sport. Even the NRL looks a bit funny at the moment, without too much worth saying.

Pakistan - GAWN; India - On the Ropes

2007-03-18T11:19:00.000+11:00

It seems the world cup minnows have just slayed a giant.

Pakistan, most famous recently for bringing the game into disrepute, then playing politics with the umpiring panel, have been beated by Ireland. Following on from their defeat at the hands of the West Indies, they can now look forward to a safe trip home, earlier than most would have expected.

In news sure to delight many minnow watchers, Bangladesh has also come into the fray with a defeat of India.

Much joy can be had watching these results. It brings a feel of unpredictability to the outcome, much like a genuine World Cup (remember Germany 2006).

Why I love the underdogs

2007-03-07T22:16:00.000+11:00

You don't get guys like this playing professional Cricket week in, week out.

But to get 2/32 against England, no matter how poorly they ended up batting, he gets my player of the week award.

9-350

2007-02-20T22:45:00.000+11:00

What sort of effort is it for Australia to let New Zealand chase over 330 twice in two games?

Each lost game recently has involved a failure of our bowlers to defend quite high scores.

This pathetic bowling effort should say only one thing to the selectors.

Pick Stuart Clark, the form Australian bowler.

Beware England Mark II

2007-02-11T23:40:00.000+11:00

England have always been able to play some cricket when given the chance.

A few creative selections later (Nixon and Dalrymple) as well as some batsmen hitting form, and they produce what appeared unlikely, a final series win against Australia.

Momentum in sport is a funny thing. Australia has been dominating world cricket for over ten years now.

Maybe a slight trip up (both with the Ashes in 2005, and now losing the unloseable series) will serve them well into the future, but it doesn't make it any less numbing to see our team fall to such disappointing losses.

They better be back bigger and better for the World Cup, otherwise there will be a public baying for their blood.

Argie Bargie and U-R-Guay

2007-02-02T23:08:00.000+11:00

Football Federation Australia has announced two exciting games in the lead up to the Asian Cup.

Argentina and Uruguay will be in Australia in June to play our first team Socceroos.

The date to keep in mind for the moment is Saturday June 2, at Telstra Stadium for the Uruguay game. Wednesday June 6 at the MCG will be the Argentina match.

Let me know if you want in for Telstra.

The Emerald Green back in training

2007-02-02T14:06:00.000+11:00

Last night was the start of the pre-season for the Emerald Green Soccer Squad.

The season promises big things, and will be worth following closely.

Anyways, looking forward to the trial games, and a season opener in late March.

Stop Pong

2007-01-28T22:39:00.000+11:00

With his precision and sheer reliability, Roger Federer has proven himself a class above all challengers these past two weeks.

Gonzalez blew away Tommy Haas, Rafael Nadal and James Blake all while they were in strong form, and also defeated Lleyton Hewitt.

But Federer proved to me that daylight comes second in these tournaments when it comes to skill. Despite losing to Roddick at Kooyong in an exhibition match, he humbled many strong opponents on his way to an awe-inspiring 10th Grand Slam.

Game Over

Finals Fever

2007-01-23T23:03:00.000+11:00

Men's Singles
I have been so impressed by Roddick's play this past week, I can but wonder, will he be able to do enough to make the final.

His opponent, Roger Federer has been brilliant as usual, and dealt very well tonight with a gallant Tommy Robredo.

On the other side of the Mens Draw, Haas v Davydenko has appeal, as does Nadal v Gonzalez.

Women's Games
The standard of play in the women's draw just hasn't impressed me as much this year, though Serena Williams keeps pulling off good saves against strong opponents, with her next opponent Vaidisova coming slightly under the radar.

Hingis v Clijsters to probably play Sharapova sounds like awesome tennis tomorrow.

Pete's Tips
With only 6 players left in each draw, I can look very stupid very quickly, but will have a go anyway.

Roddick to beat Nadal in the Men's Final
Clijsters to beat Vaidisova in the Woman's Final.

The Heat is On

2007-01-17T13:23:00.000+11:00

Heat problems at the Australian Open have created some interesting matches.

Blake dispatched with Moya, Safin, Hewitt and Sharapova scraped through, and others have had close encounters of the Melbourne kind.

All those I endorsed as in form have made the second round, but the whole process has produced some interesting matches.

The pick of the games for Thursday:
Nalbandian v Lapentti

Not sure much else looks that thrilling.

Tennis Previews

2007-01-13T21:35:00.000+11:00

I have watched a few Mens Singles Matches this week in preperation for the Australian Open.

I haven't really familiarised myself with the draw though, so here is just form observations.

Blake v Moya in the First round will be incredible and almost compulsory viewing, but Blake just winning an incredible match in Sydney will give him a huge head start mentally.

Bagdhatis is in good form again this year

Roddick and Federer will be there and there abouts, though from what I heard will have to play in a semi-final.

Andrew Murray from Scotland also looks in form, and may produce some surprises.

Beckham on the Move

2007-01-12T11:28:00.000+11:00

It isn't really a news flash from me, more just an interesting observation.

David Beckham has decided to join Los Angeles Galaxy, leaving Real Madrid.

For the purists this sort of thing is a step backwards. For Beckham, unable to crack into Real's first team on a regular basis, this saves him the ignominy of a move back to England into a lesser club than Manchester United, and gives the former England Captain (now dropped from the National Side) a good pay cheque to see out his career in the US.

Getting off the couch

2007-01-11T21:55:00.000+11:00

I couldn't spend my summer just watching and commenting on Televised sport. I needed to spend some time out on the golf course and have played much beach and park cricket.

Other random activities I have been involved in include:

Snorkelling (for the first time - feels strange to be saying that)
Kayaking
Zone3 - Laser Zone
Trying to Bodysurf
And being part of a social six-a-side soccer event.

My soccer club requires a bit more fitness from me before the season gets started, but that should be ok as the work required is worth it.

Unfortunately, being active has its side effects. I have a fun level of sunburn today, and soreness which came from a really active day after a day which was much more passive.

Oh well, the great thing is that the sport thing is fun.

Holidays

2006-12-26T18:41:00.000+11:00

Will be off doing a Ministry Activity for a week or so that means I can't cover more of the Melbourne or Sydney Tests...

Merry Christmas for yesterday, and a happy new year to my readers.

What does 2007 offer?

The Asian Cup
The Gold Coast Titans
The Cricket World Cup
The Rugby World Cup

I guess this means the blog may continue being useful.

Cya when I return.

700

2006-12-26T15:30:00.000+11:00

Shane Warne given the fitting way to leave test Cricket.

Strauss (b Warne) - 50

The first player to get 700 test wickets, on Boxing Day in his last Melbourne Test.

While I don't endorse his lifestyle, his bowling is undeniably good.

The saddest thing a Cricket selector can say...

2006-12-20T22:58:00.000+11:00

We have no succession plan

If there was anything clearer in the way the Australian Cricket team was chosen after the retirement of Damien Martyn, it was the statement above.

While Andrew Symonds makes a decent contribution, he is surely not the first person to be installed in the team if the selectors are looking to the future, and his contribution is not that indispensible (as would be the contribution of a MacGill in replacing Warne). Once again I will ask why not blood another exciting young batsman. The bowling stocks are slightly deeper with Lee and Clark well and truly in the race for a few years.

AFC Asian Cup 2007 Match Schedule

2006-12-20T13:47:00.000+11:00

Sat, July 7
Thailand v Iraq (Group A), Bangkok

Sun, July 8
Australia v Oman (Group A), Bangkok
Vietnam v United Arab Emirates (Group B), Hanoi

Mon, July 9
Japan v Qatar (Group B), Hanoi

Tue, July 10
Malaysia v China (Group C), Kuala Lumpur
Indonesia v Bahrain (Group D), Jakarta

Wed, July 11
Iran v Uzbekistan (Group C), Kuala Lumpur
Korea Republic v Saudi Arabia (Group D), Jakarta

Thu, July 12
Oman v Thailand (Group A), Bangkok
Qatar v Vietnam (Group B), Hanoi

Fri, July 13
Iraq v Australia (Group A), Bangkok
United Arab Emirates v Japan (Group B), Hanoi

Sat, July 14
Uzbekistan v Malaysia (Group C), Kuala Lumpur
Saudi Arabia v Indonesia (Group D), Jakarta

Sun, July 15
China v Iran (Group C), Kuala Lumpur
Bahrain v Korea Republic (Group D), Jakarta

Mon, July 16
Thailand v Australia (Group A), Bangkok
Oman v Iraq (Group A), Bangkok
Vietnam v Japan (Group B), Hanoi
Qatar v United Arab Emirates (Group B), Hanoi

Wed, July 18
Malaysia v Iran (Group C), Kuala Lumpur
Uzbekistan v China (Group C), Kuala Lumpur
Indonesia v Korea Republic (Group D), Jakarta
Saudi Arabia v Bahrain (Group D), Jakarta

Sat, July 21
Quarter-final 1 (winner Group A v runner-up Group B), Bangkok
Quarter-final 3 (winner Group B v runner-up Group A), Hanoi

Sun, July 22
Quarter-final 2 (winner Group C v runner-up Group D), Kuala Lumpur
Quarter-final 4 (winner Group D v runner-up Group C), Jakarta

Wed, July 25
Semi-final 1 (winner Quarter-final 1 v winner Quarter-final 2), TBA
Semi-final 2 (winner Quarter-final 3 v winner Quarter-final 4), TBA

Sat, July 28
3rd/4th playoff (loser Semi-final 1 v loser Semi-final 2), TBA

Sun, July 29
Final (winner Semi-final 1 v winner Semi-final 2), Jakarta

Asian Cup Draw...

2006-12-19T22:02:00.000+11:00

The Asian Cup Draw will probably happen between now and when I get up tomorrow.

Asian Cup 2007 seedings
Pot 1: Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam
Pot 2: China, Iraq, UAE, Bahrain
Pot 3: Qatar, Uzbekistan, Saudi Arabia, Oman
Pot 4: Australia, Iran, Japan, Korea Republic

It will be very interesting to see which countries we end up with, especially since the outcome of which Pot 1 nation we draw with determines where we play all our group matches.

Victory...

2006-12-18T16:54:00.000+11:00

Centuries of Amazing Batting

2006-12-16T20:55:00.000+11:00

Here I was thinking that there would be a nice point or two to blog about Michael Clarke's spectacular return to the Australian team and his newfound discipline. Michael Hussey's continued dominance of bowlers and an average now in the Mid 80's with another century was also worth a possible honourable mention on a day where England were absolutely owned by the Aussie batsman (eg. Hayden's 92 and Ponting in the 70's).

But then this guy walks out at number 7 called Gilchrist and produces the second fastest test century of all time 57 balls. I can't believe it.

These Aussies really did fire up for this series. (Just a pity what I said in the previous post still applies to the selectors).

Game Over

Third Test

2006-12-15T11:09:00.000+11:00

I guess I should write something about the ashes again.

This test series seems to be limiting the readership of my blog, which appears to have been going downhill ever since Australia lost to Italy (though there are a few of you faithful remnant still commenting).

Yesterday was the best bowling effort England has produced this series. A strong factor in this is the inclusion of Monty Panesar in the English line-up.

This selection boldness (in terms of picking someone who actually has talent though is inexperienced) is something lacking in Australia's uninspired selection of Andrew Symonds to replace retired Damien Martyn.

Much better selections to position for a longer-term rejuvenation of the batting line up would have been either Brad Hodge (VIC) or Phil Jaques (NSW), rather than Symonds who is older, with less capacity as a batsman in the Test Arena.

It seems that the selectors are scared that the Australian bowling line-up is not good enough to bowl out England twice over five days. If not, they wouldn't have picked a bowler.

I am sure Symonds brings plenty of team spirit into the Australian side, but there is more to consider in long term planning.

Brad Hodge deserved to keep his place in the side after the last summer's performance, but with the whole team ageing together, it is also important to consider the way the team should be being shaped for a few years time.

Boo-hoo-hoo: You Lost, Get Over It

2006-12-10T23:51:00.000+11:00

According to this SMH Report there is a bit of ill feeling towards Australia's status as an Asian Soccer Nation.

The head of Kuwait's Olympic Committee says the membership should be revoked before qualifying starts for the 2010 World Cup or it will "kill Asian soccer."

Sheik Talah al-Fahd Al Sabah, president of the West Asian Games committee, echoed earlier comments by his brother Sheikh Ahmad al-Fahad al-Sabah, the Olympic Council of Asia president.

"We are against Australia joining the Asian continent, even in soccer," Sheik Talal said.

"This is the biggest mistake made against Asian soccer. This will kill the ambitions of Asian soccer."

Australia was granted membership of the Asian Football Confederation this year after frustrating attempts at getting a direct route to the World Cup through Oceania.

Sheik Talal envisaged no trouble removing Australia from the AFC.

"It is natural to be able to change the decision. A general assembly can annul it the way it approved it," he told a news conference at the ongoing Asian Games in Doha.

"There are general assemblies that can ask them to leave the way they brought them in. I hope this happens before the World Cup qualifications."

The real reason:

MANAMA – Bahrain edged Kuwait for the remaining Group D ticket to the 2007 AFC Asian Cup after defeating their Gulf rivals 2-1 in a hard-fought encounter in Manama on Wednesday.

Two first half goals from skipper Talal Yousuf and Salman Issa put Bahrain in the driving seat and although Faraj Laheeb pulled a goal back with 20 minutes left to play but Kuwait couldn’t find the equaliser to miss out on the Asian Cup finals for the first time since 1972.

Kuwait held the initiative going into the match as they needed only a draw to qualify to next year’s continental finals along with group winners Australia while the home side needed to take all three points.

A victory for Bahrain would put them level with Kuwait on four points but after their 0-0 draw in the previous meeting between the two sides the Bahrainis would qualify with a better head-to-head record.

Australia or England... The Second Test reaches a finale

2006-12-05T16:31:00.000+11:00

The second test has taken a turn towards Australia, as English negativity leaves them vulnerable to recieving a knock-out blow.

England should have come out this morning with a mentality seeking to score runs, practice some batting, and to punish what were some very unattacking Australian Field Placings.

Australia appeared scarily unagressive for about an hour, until a few wickets were given away. They then took way too long to finish off the English batsmen.

168 Runs, 36 Overs... This sort of chase was the nightmare Allan Border dreamed of. I still recall that West Indian victory in 1993 which kept the Frank Worrell Trophy out of Australian hands for a few more years, and yes it was in Adelaide.

Time for Australia to go for broke, but to be weary, we have lost from better positions in similar amounts of time.

Update: An Australian victory, built solely on a combination of English negativity this morning. England effectively have handed back the ashes with a dismal final day.

The unsung heroes will be Ponting and Clarke whose batting kept Australia within striking distance, while much will be said about this morning's bowling when England had already decided that they couldn't win the test.

Watching Patiently

2006-12-03T20:11:00.000+11:00

The Second Test has produced some classic strategic plays on the table for the whole remainder of the Ashes Series.

With three days down, and a slightly slower run rate, it appears quite unlikely that either team will be bowled out a second time in time for the game to get a result, unless the Adelaide pitch wears sufficiently over the next few days.

This is a great opportunity for enterprising captaincy, but at the same time, enterprising decisions are a real risk for Australia.

Anyway, It is nice to see that my beware the last series warnings have been appropriately heeded, because England have come back as expected (just like Queensland).

No Follow-on

2006-11-25T16:48:00.000+11:00

Australia lead by 445 after the first innings. It seems that not only do I like watching tail enders bat, I also like watching Aussie pace bowlers bowl (though I didn't get to see that much).

But the curious think is why we didn't follow on... There are some probably logical explanations, especially considering the wicket may be deteriating, but it just seems cruel to toy with them like that.

Oh well, at least it secures fifth day cricket for the marketers.

Last Ashes thoughts for a day or so

2006-11-24T23:08:00.000+11:00

I love watching tail enders bat. Caution thrown to the wind a bit more, and less perfectionist and safe when compared with those up the order. It is what I used to love about Gilchrist and Slater and others too, though their aggression has not always been channelled well.

So it was lots of fun today to watch the play while Brett Lee, Stuart Clark and Glenn McGrath were at the crease. Lots to enjoy and celebrate about it, especially after a strong performance over the first day and a half by conventional batsmen.

To top it all off, Australia then went into the field and secured three wickets before stumps. It is set to be an interesting series if this keeps going. Though my memory keeps telling me that this is typical for first tests in Australia, and that slowly the Batting of the Away team improves as ours declines.

Go Australia, but keep the fight up. In my blogging absence, enjoy it anyway.

Day One

2006-11-23T14:34:00.000+11:00

It begins... The much awaited Ashes series has started.

As has been said by those more knowledgeable than I, Test cricket is all about long term strategic dominance, rather than short term bursts of flair.

This series has all the makings of a nice hard fought series, though the honours at the moment seem to be going Australia's way. I tried to be productive while watching the first session, and sorted lots of things in front of the TV, but watching Langer play this morning was just beautiful.

Go Australia, but just don't let those Poms be good Queenslanders and make you think you will win easily, only to surprise you when they are surprisingly good.

Fantasy NBA Update

2006-11-21T23:04:00.000+11:00

Over the past week I have been slowly moving up the NBA ladder, regaining some ground on the whole competition.

Yesterday I even moved out of 13th (and last) place, into equal 11th. Today while picking up ground on average I slipped back to 12th.

Sometimes a bit of statistical skill works wonders, as does a form improvement from some of my key player's and their teams.

Queensland must be really boring...

2006-11-19T13:23:00.000+11:00

Sold out Rugby League test matches...

ARL chief executive Geoff Carr says officials can no longer sit back and tolerate empty seats at major games in Sydney when Queenslanders are fighting for tickets to any game played at Suncorp Stadium.

"Since Suncorp reopened, we've had crowds of more than 40,000 in Brisbane at every Test,'' Carr said. "And whenever we take a game to Melbourne and promote it as a major event, we get great crowds, support and atmosphere.

"We all realise Sydney is the heartland of rugby league. But for whatever reason, whenever Tests are shown live on TV, fans haven't gone to the ground. It's something we're going to have to look at. We're running a business and gate receipts are an important part of that.''

Two weeks ago the "official'' crowd was 22,000 when Australia played Great Britain at Aussie Stadium. Insiders have told The Sunday Telegraph there was some creative counting going on and the true figure was closer to 18,000.

Ashes to Ashes, Dust to Dust

2006-11-13T19:00:00.000+11:00

Note Offensive Comments Below

The Ashes (since 1989) has followed a similar trajectory to the Rugby League State of Origin since the mid 1990's. Partly built on the long-term domination of one side who simply have better players (at present Australia and NSW), the series can often get written off as a fait-acompli.

Sure it is nice to give the Queenslanders a token series win here or there, or to give the Poms a dead rubber near the end of the series, but the dominance of one side has always led to a questioning of whether the games mean anything anymore.

The absolute dominance of Australia's cricketers since Mark Taylor began opening the batting and the classy batsman simply unable to get selected for Australia because of the men above them, has created a degree of complacency over the whole contest.

I can feel the mood coming again now (just read the sports papers from the weekend). But it is important to realise just one thing... the last time we lost the Ashes, we didn't expect to either.

In 2005 we won the first test by 239 Runs... The poms were absolutely belted, and couldnt manage to score more than 200. We all thought that it was just another ordinary Ashes series (like after State of Origin 1 this year), and the comments were about how big Australia would win by.

But then we lost the second test, despite the valiant batting effort of Brett Lee, and the brash and ill thought choices of Shane Warne in the second innings.

The third test we scraped a draw, and the fourth test saw us smashed.

Just keep those victory celebrations on ice for a little while. The english may have lost to our Prime Minister's team (which is no shame), may be getting carted around the SCG by the blues, and may look like a bunch of amateurs. But we need to win at least twice before we can go nuts, otherwise we might just have another 2005.

HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2006-11-09T19:44:00.000+11:00

I have proven a dismal failure (as expected) in Fantasy NBA.

There is plenty of time left, but I need some assistance... otherwise I will quickly end up with no points.

ARGHHH!!!

(Along with the dearth of good sport, it is enough to almost tempt me away from writing about sport much now).

Update: Just visited the Yahoo Basketball News site (as opposed to the Fantasy site), and it turns out my key teams are underperfoming, so I am screwed.

Non-siphoned sports

2006-10-29T14:13:00.000+11:00

I got to write an essay about the anti-siphoning list the other week, discussing how certain sports have a character that almost demands free-to-air coverage.

Well today watching my TV was interesting, just because of the non-siphoned sports content able to be seen.

NBL Highlights/Game of the Round (Delayed Coverage)
Some surfing title
The International Rules series (AUS v IRE)

International Rules reminds me of a few sports I know well (AFL, Association Football (Soccer), and possibly a bit of Rugby thrown in), but is a blend of the AFL and Gaelic Football. It looked rather messy, and it was hard to get excited about, but I still felt a bit disappointed when Australia let a lead slip in the last minute or so.

I am planning on watching the next one, but this all depends on what I am doing at the time. For you Swans fans, the Australian team has Hall, Schneider, Davis and O'Keefe. The Irish have Keneally.

NBA Fantasy?

2006-10-14T12:53:00.000+10:00

I have joined an NBA Fantasy league.

I haven't really followed much NBA since the mid 90's, and will possibly struggle tomorrow night to sort the wheat from the chaff when it comes to good players.

I'd rather choose them on my own, follow the season for a little while and learn on the run.

I may be tempted to post on this topic here from time to time, but I will try not to be too boastful if I get any unexpected victories.

I might wait till the draft comes before saying more, but expect an interesting time for the season (and a generally poor showing from me).

My fleeting TV Moment

2006-10-13T14:58:00.000+10:00

My friend Simon pointed out that you can see me in the crowd at the Soccer in the FoxSports News coverage the other day.

Here is the link to the video, if you look carefully in the panned crowd shot near the beginning you can see Simon and I. (Simon is wearing a White top, and I am wearing a blue Australia T-shirt next to him).

Asian Cup Seeding now ours

2006-10-11T23:41:00.000+10:00

Here describes a game I went to tonight.

It will be interesting to see how we handle the real thing, but it was nice to see the heroes of Germany come and put on a show for us.

Pity they tended to fade a bit near the end.

Football Fever

2006-10-05T18:23:00.000+10:00

In the next week there will be two Socceroos matches.

Australia v Paraguay in Brisbane;
Australia v Bahrain in Sydney.

It would have been right to say most of the squad had returned, but now Craig Moore has gone back to the UK after missing a flight from Sydney to Brisbane.

Oh well... it should still be a quality side, and expected to put in a quality performance in both matches.

Expect more updates as next Wednesday's match comes and goes.

West Coast Scarf Guarantees Elimination

2006-10-02T20:35:00.000+10:00

Australian Idol Bottom Three Tonight - Mutto, Lisa and Jess.

Why does it relate to Sport?

What did they have in common? They all were people I liked till they wore Eagles Scarves to the Grand Final on Saturday Night.

I guess that says something...

This is what rivalry is built on

2006-09-30T17:12:00.000+10:00

ONE POINT... BUGGER...

Just to get some perspective on the Battle of the Birds...
2006 Grand Final: Eagles by One Point (84-85)
2006 Semi Final: Swans by One Point (85-84)
2006 Round 15: West Coast by Two Points (65-67)

2005 Grand Final: Swans by Four Points (58-54)
2005 Semis: Eagles by Four Points (65-69)

The past results have been less close, but don't expect any charity at all next year if these two teams are still on top. They will have to slug it out again.

Grand Final Thoughts

2006-09-30T16:35:00.000+10:00

It has taken me Three Quarters to get my thoughts down in bloggable form.

I decided to not use the computer for the first half, but the direction of the game seemed to force my hand as a distraction.

Quarter 1:
West Coast playing like thugs trying to rough up our guys. The swans playing nervously.
The West Coast dominate, but a 16 point lead flatters the Swans goalkicking which has been appalling.
Quarter 2:
It was a bit more of the same, except there was Goals both ways...
Quarter 3:
Sydney kick a few extra goals and start dominating field position and possession. West Coast look like they have more injuries. A few late goals (three in a row) had the effect of cutting the margin to 11.

Let's get ready to go.

Go Swans!!!

2006-09-29T23:42:00.000+10:00

We're the eagles, West Coast Eagles...
We're the Eagles, it's crying time.

Tomorrow is the chance for the Swans to secure their place in history.

They have played reasonably well this season, but have done well enough to get themselves there.

At around 5:30pm it will be time to shake down the thunder from the sky again.

Time for a re-pete.

Too Tired to Update until now

2006-09-22T23:37:00.000+10:00

Having had last weekend swamped by assessments, I have been a bit too tired to keep updating my blog.

Oh well.

Swans Win - Who said last year was a fluke?
Broncos Win - I really thought they were gone a few weeks ago, guess I was wrong.

Picks for tomorrow and the events I would like to blog about...
Adelaide - Too much at stake for them to go down at home. (I also want Sydney to beat all three teams to win the title) - That said, a West Coast win would also have interesting stories to write about it too.
Dragons - Just so the Grand Final can mirror the 3 v 6 Finals of 1999. (The Dragons won interstate in week 1, only to have the other team make the Grand Final against them (like Brisbane have now done) and Win overall).

Finals Week 2

2006-09-11T16:12:00.000+10:00

NRL:
Dragons v Sea-Eagles - To Play Storm
Knights v Broncos - To Play Bulldogs

AFL
Fremantle v Melbourne - To Play Swans
West Coast v Western Bulldogs - To Play Crows

Pete's Analysis
The Wild West for the AFL finals should set up interesting contests. The best placed teams to make the grand final may not be the teams best placed to win this weekend.
But that is all the effect of good management on coming higher on the table.

Prediction: Melbourne and West Coast to Win good matches.

The NRL games pit some decent rivalries together. St George-Illawarra are perennial underachievers, but based on last week may seek to turn it around. Brisbane look to be on the slide, but Newcastle will probably be missing Danny Buderus, so it should be an interesting clash.

Prediction: Knights and then a close one with perhaps a slight advantage to the Dragons.

Super Saturday Night

2006-09-09T21:12:00.000+10:00

I guess I have had other things to do, so live-blogging everything becomes quite a hassle.

That said, there is lots of sport happening tonight.

St George Illawara (Team 6) 20 d Brisbane (Team 3) 6

Not watching much of that because of the AFL, but it seems as though the Broncos form has returned to where they were a few weeks ago.

Bulldogs (Team 2) v Canberra (Team 7)
This is looking to be quite a fascinating context, in torrential rain, but lots of handling errors makes the game more interesting than it would be otherwise.

Update: Halftime 12-6 lead to the Bulldogs
Bulldogs will win easily in the end. 30-6 with 10 mins to go.

Eagles v Swans
Well into the game the Sydney Swans look like they are playing well enough to get a home preliminary final. There will be updates continuting though on this game.

Update: 3/4 Time - Sydney 66 - West Coast 63.
Full Time: Sydney 85 - West Coast 84 - YEAAHHH!!!

Live Blogging - Adelaide v Fremantle

2006-09-09T14:42:00.000+10:00

Time for some AFL finals fun. Our First live blogging experience of the weekend, to be followed up across the AFL and NRL Finals series.
Let's get ready for some fun. :)

Quarter 1: I guess we will go slow, but the noise from the crowd caught on TV sounds exciting. Notionally I would like a Fremantle win for sentimental reasons. But we will have to wait and see.
Q1: 15 Remaining: Freo 1-1-7; Adelaide 0-1-1.
Strong early start for Fremantle. The play looks swarming and aggressive.
Q1: 7 Remaining: Freo 4-2-26; Adelaide 0-2-2.
The Crows have missed a few top chances (including one in front of goal). This wind is having a huge impact.
Quarter Time: Freo 4-2-26; Adelaide 1-3-9.
Adelaide came back in the last few minutes. Lots of kicks are getting timed poorly with the wind out of defence by Freo, but at the same time the wind has produced a spectacular goal.
Quarter 2: 16 remaining: Adelaide 2-4-16; Freo 4-2-26.
I am wondering if Adelaide's accuracy is not helping them, but they did just kick another goal.
Q2: 7 Remaining Adelaide 3-6-24; Freo 4-2-26.
The direction of the momentum is enthralling. Freo look impotent in attack at the moment, struggling in defence. Adelaide have just wasted another two chances though, and Freo is still just on top.
Half Time Freo 5-2-32; Adelaide 3-8-26
A late goal to Freo gives them the honours for the half. Adelaide finished poorly.
Q3: 14 Remaining Freo 5-3-33; Adelaide 3-11-29
Another run, another series of behinds... Adelaide could have just taken the lead.
Q3: 8 Remaining Freo 7-4-46; Adelaide 3-12-30.
The score looks like a bad joke. The defensive efforts are strong. Freo just kicked a goal to move slightly clear... All the players look tired, and it is hard to see where things will head in the longer term. Freo get a free kick as I write this, will extend to 16 points. Looks like an interesting set up for the final term...
Q3: 4 Remaining Freo 7-4-46; Adelaide 4-12-36.
A spectacular goal from the Crows, puts them back closer to the action, and may set them up well for the final term.
Three Quarter Time Freo 7-4-46; Adelaide 5-12-42.
Will be tough for Freo to keep their lead, although Adelaide have not been in front yet. The start of the final term will be critical, but having slightly narrowed the score against the wind, they will be in the best position to get through.
Final Q: 13 Left Adelaide 6-13-49; Freo 7-4-46
Adelaide goal puts them in the lead. That Might be enough to do it, with the momentum how they want it.
Final Q: 7 Left Adelaide 8-14-62; Freo 7-4-46
Game Over, might blog more later, but at this stage, it is unlikely to shift.

Soccer-lose

2006-09-07T22:12:00.000+10:00

Those Australians seem to always perform sporadically.

Put some A-Leaguers together and scrape a win in front of a home crowd.

Put the European Pros together and lose in tough conditions.

Weird.

Anyways, we have qualified, but we still need to make sure that we will actually do something when we get there.

Should be interesting when we get to the finals next July.

Victoria Shut-Out!!!

2006-09-03T18:56:00.000+10:00

AFL
West Coast v Sydney
Adelaide v Fremantle
Collingwood v Western Bulldogs
St Kilda v Melbourne

It is hard to tip right now who will go where, but it harder to see a Victorian team making a massive showing in the finals series now that the Swans and Fremantle have secured the final places in the Top 4.

Since they are both in exceptional form, I think Freo and Sydney wins are not out of the question this weekend, as long as the match officials get the timing of the siren right.

NRL
With Melbournites failing in the AFL, they may get some courage from the Storm.

I can't see them getting beaten now (which means they probably will). The recent form of the top 8 sides, means that it is only likely for Parramatta to get an early season holiday. Any of side outside the top 3 could end up joining them (although it is admittedly likely to be Canberra).

JT Promoted

2006-08-31T09:43:00.000+10:00

The Key Question being asked over the past few weeks as the Eels had strong form, was how will JT handle becoming an assistant coach?

The answer is that he won't have to.

Oxfam Walking Challenge

2006-08-26T14:18:00.000+10:00

My Mate Bevan took on the Oxfam Trailwalk this year.

Unfortunately it seems he had to pull out about half way round the 100km Journey, but despite the fun he has personally had, his team has raised a decent slice of money for the Oxfam Cause.

The walk is a decent slog, I have walked part of the track before (just the bit near my house), and I think the effort involved would be lots of fun, if nothing else.

So here is another minor sport congratulations. The effort involved (especially when feeling sick) is definately worth the weight in Gold.

If you want to sponsor Bevan, simply go to his website, and follow the links to the team.

The Hair Ball

2006-08-22T22:25:00.000+10:00

I guess I should comment on what has been happening in the media recently in regards to Darrell Hair.

He is a match official who has for a long time tried to be fair, and has called things when others have been afraid to.

Without much further evidence there is no real suggestion that he was being biased. It seems more so that he was just getting sick of the gamesmanship that has accompanied certain actions.

Many prominent former players might disagree with me, but it appears to be simply a case of a man being attacked for doing his job.

At this point, I am quite happy to call him not guilty.

Testing the Long-Range Predictions

2006-08-20T22:29:00.000+10:00

Two weeks have passed since I boldly suggested some predictions in the NRL and the AFL... How am I going.

NRL
"Sea Eagles (26) - How they respond to a tough run home will shape their entire season." - Result on 30 points with two wins.
Eels (24) - Their current form (see previous post) should see them finish in the top 4, and from there it is anyone's game. - Result, Finish Round 24 in the top 4.
The others:
If the form of some of the top eight has been underwhelming lately, it has still often been better than those outside. - None of the teams outside the eight have a reasonable shot at it anymore.

Assessment - Pretty close to the mark.

AFL
I Said

1. The Swans actually look like they deserve to win games (unlike in June)
2. The top 3 non-Victorian teams look stronger than the 4 Victorian teams in the finals.
3. Sydney will have to beat both the West Coast and Adelaide to win a second premiership.
4. If Sydney lose against either Adelaide or West Coast in the first week of the finals, then they will still have to beat them both to win the premiership.

Result -
1. They still look good.
2. The top 4 Victorian Teams are all in there now...
3. The make up of the major finals is now uncertain due to an Adelaide form slump.
4. If Sydney lose any games from here on in, it could be fatal.

St Ives Div 6R Shock Loss

2006-08-19T18:58:00.000+10:00

In a result that will send shockwaves through the nation, Mt Colah have beated St Ives in the Ku-Ring-Gai District Soccer Association All Age Division 6 Reserves at Cammeray.

After creating many chances, but failing to execute them, the valiant warriors from St Ives were set back by two well executed headers in the box, and never quite recovered.

This means the season is over for Pete and his fellow travellers, though he expressed his deep thanks for a good hard effort this season, and wished Mt Colah the best in the semi-finals.

Soccer Night Photo Gallery: Australia 2 - Kuwait 0

2006-08-16T23:35:00.000+10:00

Fire Up Boys

2006-08-15T21:30:00.000+10:00

Australia open up their home game qualifiers in the Asian Cup tomorrow night at Aussie Stadium (the SFS).

The local boys from the A-League are set to star, and we can qualify in one simple result, a win.

Stay tuned over the next few days to see action shots from the event.

Serves him right

2006-08-14T20:04:00.000+10:00

I am generally proud of my record as both a match official and a player, in that time, although I have copped some abuse, I try not to dish it out anywhere near as often.

Being a superstar in sport should carry some degree of responsibility. It is fair to ask players to care about how their team goes from week to week, but it is a different story to somehow assume that this makes them above the law.

I like Joey, but he deserves all he gets for abusing a touch judge. There are better ways to express frustration than simply unloading some expletives.

The Emerald Green

2006-08-13T14:22:00.000+10:00

The photo to the left is from my Soccer Team's website, taken at training early in the season. At the time I was still unsure whether I had made a good decision to try and play this year.

What I can say, and this is a definate comment, is that this year I have gotten to know some great guys, and appreciated how we work together as a team.

Yesterday we had our final hit-out before the semis, and because we have spent a month waiting for some soccer to play, we came out hungry for some action.

A 5-2 win seems pretty cool, especially given the way in which we have dropped off the intensity so many times in the past when playing well. Just a shame that a few good saves have kept me off the scoresheet again.

Next week should be Semi-Finals. Go St Ives!!!

The Night is for Hunting

2006-08-12T21:26:00.000+10:00

In the last NRL wrap, there were five key games highlighted for this weekend, in relation to Finals qualification.

With four of them now played, and everyone convinced that the Tigers will win tomorrow (I can still hope), there are a few things worth noting.

Manly look strong (this hurts to say that).
The Eels are in the top 4 at least temporarily (unless Brisbane win tomorrow)
Wests still have a chance.

The Real Analysis
Manly have probably saved their season with their win, a tough run home is still ahead.
28 points should be enough to qualify for finals footy.
26 Points is probably not going to be enough.
Again the teams on 22 seem unable to take their chances

Anyway... Interesting Times

AFL - Unleash the flood

2006-08-08T21:03:00.000+10:00

Having watched the Western Bulldogs scrap a win last week I had reason to reflect on flooded defensive lines.

In AFL, possession + field possession = points.
In a more civilised sport - i.e. Soccer, possession + field position = anything.

The Western Bulldogs have managed to make the situation for teams opposing them look more like a soccer result, and tend to score frequently on the counter attack.

AFL is more tribal and geographical than even league, so I guess I will express what really matters.
1. The Swans actually look like they deserve to win games (unlike in June)
2. The top 3 non-Victorian teams look stronger than the 4 Victorian teams in the finals.
3. Sydney will have to beat both the West Coast and Adelaide to win a second premiership.
4. If Sydney lose against either Adelaide or West Coast in the first week of the finals, then they will still have to beat them both to win the premiership.

Long-Range Predictions (NRL)

2006-08-07T08:28:00.000+10:00

Paul G didn't make any definate prophecies about who wouldn't win this year, which means I have had to wait longer to discover where the teams are sitting in relation to the major National Sporting Codes.

World Cup fever has finally subsided enough to get a clearer picture for the trajectory of the different teams. I will start with the NRL.

Melbourne (38) - They have hot a very strong patch of form. It is hard to see them losing before the finals. But like many years, the Minor Premiers don't necessarily get the end reward for their dominance.
Bulldogs (32) - A bit up-and-down, but will end up putting in a strong finish and be there or there abouts when it all ends.
Broncos (26) - On their current form, they might just stay in the eight, but not do much more.
Knights (26) - Their form has been cyclical. But they are dangerous when they get moving.
Sea Eagles (26) - How they respond to a tough run home will shape their entire season.
Dragons (26) - Not as tough a run-in as faced by some of the others, but may find it difficult when the finals come. Look like they will probably make up the numbers.
Eels (24) - Their current form (see previous post) should see them finish in the top 4, and from there it is anyone's game.
Raiders (24) - They are sitting in the eight, but because of their for-and-against are most vulnerable to the wannabees on 22 points.

The others:
If the form of some of the top eight has been underwhelming lately, it has still often been better than those outside. All but three teams are within eight points, so anything may still happen with four weeks to go, but for those seeking to make up the numbers, a result this weekend is probably essential.
Broncos (26) v Storm (38)
Bulldogs (32) v Dragons (26)
Panthers (22) v Roosters (18)
Knights (26) v Sea-Eagles (26)
Tigers (20) v Raiders (24)
Sharks (22) v Eels (24)
Warriors (18) v Cowboys (22)
Rabbitohs (8) - Bye

So who is Pete's Pick?
At this stage, I think the shaping Bulldogs v Storm Grand Final may be interesting, but I can't rule out a Parramatta upset in the Preliminary Final, especially now the September dead-weight has possibly been removed.

The Parramatta Bandwagon

2006-08-04T22:48:00.000+10:00

Having spent a number of years living and breathing the air around Parramatta, I can tell you probably two things which are certain at the moment.

1. They are probably excited to have a team showing such good form at this time of the season.
2. They are probably nervous that somehow once again they will find the ability to lose a big match in September (and probably the week before the grand-final as is their form).

They are on such a roll at the moment, having slowly rolled St George into the mud tonight, extracting a fair revenge for their last outing against them on a Friday Night.

Church St will be abuz at the moment, but since as a boy I used to love going to see Jason Taylor's tricks in the Black and White at Campbelltown Sportsground (now Stadium), I can hardly think there is a better option to lead them through this finals series. Just a shame that JT's move to assist at Souths next year effectively leaves this as his only chance for a while to coach a premiership.

Learn up them rules

2006-08-03T21:40:00.000+10:00

Sports Websites don't tend to get too creative all the time.

But this effort by the Sydney Swans and the AFL has to rate a mention.

The quality of the presentation is a bit quirky but interesting, and it provides a good way of understanding more ways of what is a pretty strange game (on a world scale anyway).

If you don't like the swans, you may get a little bit sick from the Sydneyness of the site, but it is worth a look.

I guess that solves it

2006-08-02T17:04:00.000+10:00

A moot point I have asked a few people related to the ability of the Lebanese to play in the Asian Cup Qualifiers over the next few weeks while they are dealing with a Hezbollah-induced time of turmoil.

We have an answer. They Won't.

The full effects of this for Australia are not quite known yet. Fortunately, the games against Bahrain and against Kuwait should still be going ahead.

Update: Lebanon are out. Three team qualifiers now... Australia qualifies if they come first or second...

Don't worry girls, it is just a game...

2006-07-28T23:37:00.000+10:00

I think for an explanation, read the comments in the post below, but this is one of the games I regret I didn't see.

Will these girls be Asian Champions?

2006-07-27T20:55:00.000+10:00

The great tragedy of our Media diet means that these girls seem to not get the attention their efforts deserve.

There is mention of it on the SMH homepage, but you really, really have to go searching for it.

They have made the World Cup, and on Sunday have a chance to take out the first Asian Title within the football family.

To all those wondering if a move into Asia was the right thing for Football... just sit back and enjoy.

Equal But Different

2006-07-24T11:33:00.000+10:00

I remember many times being told by my teachers in High School that Women's sport deserves more newstime and space.

So, purely in the interests of this sort of noble Goal, I will be highlighting two top-quality womens sporting events currently happening.

The First is the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2006. Japan and China have progressed through Group A. Group B is to be finalised this afternoon with Australia needing a draw against Thailand to make the semis, and South and North Korea playing for the other position.

Why does this tournament matter?
Apart from being Australia's first big global outing on the Asian Football Stage, it also serves as qualifiers for the Women's World Cup in China next year.

China has automatic qualification, but the top two teams will qualify, and the third placed one (ie. the lowest of the semi-finalists bar China) will end up in a play-off with a CONCACAF nation for the final position. Our Young Matildas (U20's) have already qualified through Asia for World Cup Glory, so it will be interesting to see how our Senior Team travels.

Go Australia!!!

Event Two is the Australia v New Zealand Netball Tests.

Although it is only a two-test series, it is between the best two teams in the world.
The Final Game is at the Acer Arena tomorrow night, and should be good. I think the kiwis probably have our number on this one though.

Asian Cup Countdown

2006-07-23T22:34:00.000+10:00

A clever ploy to join the Football Family has led to me securing tickets for the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers in Sydney...

Australia v Kuwait is 24 Days away!

It is so exciting. Something about Sport has a calming effect, allowing a general mellowing of emotional temperatures. (That is unless we lose because of a poor decision of course)

Go Australia.

Tigers Injury Woes Continue

2006-07-23T18:40:00.000+10:00

As pictured above, Brett Hodgson has injured his knee, and is out for the season.

Parra started the day with lots of Line-dropouts.

Imanuel and I had a good time catching up...

But unfortunately, we only saw this once...

Oh well, there is always next year.

2006-07-13T22:14:00.000+10:00

ZIDANE a new way to solve problems.. make it like zidane

I guess the title is self explanatory. For your enjoyment.

FIFA Rankings Out Today

2006-07-13T09:10:00.000+10:00

The joke may be on the Asian Confederation. Traditionally poor performers on the World Cup Stage, and losing all weightings from Japan/Korea 2002 looks to have combined to place Australia top of the heap.

AFC Rankings
33 Australia (+9)
47 Iran (-24)
49 Japan (-31)
50 Uzbekistan (+10)
56 Korea Republic (-37)
76 Qatar (+2)
81 Saudi Arabia (-47)
86 Oman (-4)
88 Iraq (-36)
89 China PR (-21)
90 UAE (-19)
91 Korea DPR (-3)
94 Bahrain (-40)
98 Jordan (-14)
100 Kuwait (-26)

Global Top 10
The Overall List has provided some surprises in reweighting, but none of real significance yet. (Except Nigeria gaining an incredible 400 points without playing in the World Cup)
1 Brazil
2 Italy (Up 11)
3 Argentina (Up 6)
4 France (Up 4)
5 England (Up 5)
6 Netherlands (Down 3)
7 Spain (Down 2)
8 Portugal (Down 1)
9 Germany (Up 10)
10 Czech Republic (Down 8)

So what changed?
FIFA has changed the weighting system so that losses don't get points, and home wins are no longer worth less than away wins. In simplifying the system, it looks as though it has been made less fair. Although since Australia's international schedule will be busier now in Asia, this should lead to an improvement in our rating based simply on the regularity of competition.
They have also made results only count over a four year period, not an eight year one as it was previously.

Hero to villan in one moment of madness

2006-07-10T07:00:00.000+10:00

Which is such a shame, from such a fine player.

Quick Catch Up

2006-07-06T15:15:00.000+10:00

Having Been away for almost a week, the blog has been neglected.

Here seems to be the top sporting stories at the moment.

I have Baghdatitis

Marcus Baghdatis has blitzed his way past Lleyton Hewitt and into the Wimbledon Semis.

Origin "Alive"
Queensland have saved the State of Origin Series (supposedly if they had lost nobody would care anymore), with a win on the back of two tries in the last 10 minutes.

Grosso's shameful act puts Italy into the World Cup Final
In a totally out of character move, Italy's Grosso in the box with 2 minutes of extra time remaining, took a shot on goal, and actually scored. "I couldn't believe it" astonished onlookers said. "After watching the Australia game, I thought he went down because he couldn't shoot. It isn't as if Lucas Neill was in his way that time either." In an unusual twist, the Italians actually took four decent shots in Extra Time, with two hitting the posts, and two scoring the necessary points.

ZinZi looks for final triumph
After showing much lower standards of skill than would normally be expected from a professional side, the French have moved into the World Cup Final after brushing aside Brazil and Portugal. Taking the unusual strategy of winning in normal time, the French may be a force to be reckoned with, as their win in the previous European World Cup (1998) indicates they should be. This will also be the last hurrah for the prince of French Football, Zinedine Zidane.

Italian Divers

2006-06-29T10:56:00.000+10:00

The boys in my Soccer team have been sending round via emails some interesting pictures of Italian Divers, but I wonder what can be made of this last one.

And then there were eight...

2006-06-28T13:27:00.000+10:00

The World Cup throws up a few curveballs.

Form is never the most accurate guide.

Here is the Final Eight:

Germany v Argentina
Italy v Ukraine
England v Portugal
Brazil v France

The name that doesn't seem to fit here is the Ukraine. But that was the way the draw was already. It is just a shock that France hit form so suddenly.

Weekend Minor Local Codes Wrap

2006-06-27T22:49:00.000+10:00

In the midst of the soccer rise and fall, you would be forgiven for thinking that the AFL only had two games played last weekend, and the NRL was a bit uneventful (or I think that sometimes anyway).

But this week's Macarthur Chronicle (that's right my friends) should put you straight...

Unfortunately, I wasn't paying much attention, but...
Rugby League games saw the top 8 pitted against other top 8 teams.
As much as it hurts me to say it, Melbourne, Brisbane and Cronulla look the goods, as does Canterbury.
Wests have to fight the season out without Benji, and despite thumping the Broncos, the Rabbits have returned to their rightful place as whipping boys.

In the AFL, it was pretty much a non-event.
Sydney lost a game they probably once again deserved to lose (what is with that), while the Kangaroos showed why Carlton deserve to lose regularly with a last gasp resuscitation.

With the world cup diving competition heating up, it is worth remembering that long after the Australian public stops debating dubious refereeing non-decisions (like that handball) and decisions (like the swan-dive), while ignoring other dubious overreactions (like that red card), we can be sure that somewhere sometime, these miniscule sports with no presence globally may once again recapture the public's imagination, maybe around August and September anyway.

Accountant Bemoans Lack of Productivity

2006-06-27T21:43:00.000+10:00

I wonder where those green-wristbands come from...

Could it be a Big-4?

2006-06-26T18:59:00.000+10:00

Italian Soccer Style

I guess this is an important public service announcement. I won't be watching this game tonight because of a 2UOC exam, but I think I wouldn't mind missing us play a team well known for going down easily.

Round of 16 Preview

2006-06-24T16:12:00.000+10:00

Germany v Sweeden
Argentina v Mexico
Italy v Australia
Switzerland v Ukraine

England v Ecuador
Portugal v Netherlands
Brazil v Ghana
Spain v France
I have edited the above based on predictions made last time, the incorrect positioning and choices are italicised.

Very European - a run down on the Preliminary Placings
10/14 European Sides have made the final 16. (14 Places)
3/4 South American Sides did. (4.5 Places)
1/4 CONCAF (North and Central America) Nations (3.5 Places)
1/5 African Nations Made it. (5 Places)
0/4 Asia. They only gets a look in if you consider that Australia is considered Asian since the start of the year. (4.5 Places)
1/1 Oceania (as Qualified but AUS is now technically Asain) - (0.5 Places)

Out of the teams who qualified through play-offs, 3 (Spain, Australia and Switzerland) have made the Second Phase. 2 (Trinidad and Tobago, Czech Republic) Didn't.
Also possibly interesting is that Serbia and Montenegro and Croatia both won their Qualifying Groups, Poland also qualified Automatically (But all are going home).

Ok, lets tip Quarter Finals
Germany v Argentina
(Australia) v Ukraine
England v Netherlands (I don't know why I keep tipping them)
Brazil v Spain.

What will History Say Now???

2006-06-23T11:17:00.000+10:00

We made it through to the next round, I wonder what the next irritating history ad will come out.

Considering we have never played a full international against Italy, it will be an interesting match.

But I am looking forward to it, apart from the fact I have an exam on Tuesday, and Mum has already tried to lay down the law, suggesting I don't stay up and watch the 1am kick-off.

Live Blog: Croatia v Australia

2006-06-23T04:59:00.000+10:00

The time has come for the world cup to get interesting. Australia need points v Croatia. Many of the Australians have a Croatian heritage, many of the Croatians are Aussie born. Graham Poll in charge, he should do a pretty good job.

If we come 2nd, we will play Italy next week, should be fun.
o Min
Here we go.
2 min 1-0 Croatia
Viduka fouls a player outside the box. Srna scores from the Free Kick.
9 Mins
Australia produce one of their better attacking moves of the whole cup, but it isnt a goal.
14 Min
First Australian set-piece, but headed away quickly out of Croatian danger.
20 Min
Getting annoyed by Viduka's style, he seems to be playing for the free-kick a bit more than playing for the ball at times. Just as I type this, he was involved in a reasonable chance with Kewell, but not enough.
26 Min
I know it is early days, but Australia has looked vulnerable to the counterattack both today and in the cup generally. We also haven't looked convincing in breaking down flooded defences. I hope things improve.
33 min
The game is starting to open up a bit for the Aussies. Not a lot yet, but a bit, and the signs are looking promising, for the time being at least.
37 Min
Australia have a penalty, Moore is taking it. 1-1.
42 Min
The whole dynamic has changed now, open play, both sides getting a few chances, but more for Australia.
Half Time 1-1
Things are looking much better. We are in the box seat to qualify now, all we need is a good 45 minutes, and things will be certain. Go AUSTRALIA, do what you have been trained to do, keep it up.
53 Min
Settling into the second half. Australia need to retain some attacking ascendency. I don't think we will get there by sitting back and defending.
55 Min Croatia 2-1
Kalac makes an awful mistake, this could have massive implications.
61 Min
Attacking Free Kick, Bresciano isnt on to hit it over... instead it goes into the wall.
63 Min
Aloisi on, the Croations getting frustrated, but they still lead.
70 Min
Bresciano looks like he is about to be injected. Sterjovski has had a good game, but we might do with the fresh legs. Kewell stopped by a good save.
73 Min
Bresciano has an immediate impact on the set piece. Lets se what he can do now.
Kennedy on Chipperfield (who had a good game) Off.
79 Min
HAAARRRYYYYYYYYY!!!! It's about time he scored. Australia in the best position, 2-2.
83 Min
The goal by Kewell is what we needed to do. If we got another penalty, it would have been a bit of a joke, no matter what the SBS commentator says.
85 Min
Red Card to Simic - The handling of the ref by Number 2 was a bit poor too.
87 Min
Emerton off for second Yellow, deliberate handball. Only 5 mins now probably.
92 Min
The ref has made a fundamental error. Double Booked a player without him getting ejected. Australia has a penalty.
Red card to Siminic now. Full time blown. Seems a bit rediculous but we are through.

Dissent and Referees

2006-06-20T20:37:00.000+10:00

I don't know why, but I have become much less intolerant for poor refereeing since I started playing again.

But when I saw Harry Kewell go at the referee after the Brazil match, and watching the replays afterwards, it reminded me of what I did one half-time a few weeks back. Not as severe, and of course I asked in the nicest possible way, but it was still slightly aggressive (and shocked my teammates).

Perhaps I have forgotten what it is like to have coaches run up to me and scream, but I think that there was enough close decisions going to Brazil to really mess up the game.

Sometimes I think that a referee will start to worry if a lowly ranked team starts looking good against a highly ranked one, and have their decisions influenced. It is just a shame that Australia always seems to be in that position (though admittedly about 85 mins in the Japan game, we were lucky not to concede a penalty).

I hope the standard improves, though maybe it will just be a case of one-eyed Peter wanting Australia to win, and getting annoyed when they don't.

Third Game Previews

2006-06-20T08:21:00.000+10:00

With the final make up of the last 16 to be decided over the next four evenings, it is time for a look at how things are going, and what is to be expected.

Group A
Ecuador v Germany will work out who comes 1st and 2nd. TIP - Germany to win.
Group B
England v Sweeden decides pretty much the same issue (with a Trinidad and Tobago risk). - TIP England to win, Sweeden Second.
Group C
Argentina v Netherlands is the same situation as group A. TIP - Netherlands to Win
Group D
Portugal v Mexico matches Group B, TIP - Probably Portugal at this stage.
Group E
Italy (4) v Czech Republic (3)
Ghana (3) v USA (1)
Generally here, the winner of each match gets a place in the next round. Draws will make things complicated, along with the Goal Difference gap between Italy and the USA. If both games are drawn, Italy and the Czechs go through.
TIP - Probably Italy and Ghana, but who knows.
Group F
The matches we will all care about.
Brazil is through... and as long as Japan don't win big time, Japan are out.
Australia (3) v Croatia (1) means that we need at least a draw to progress, which we should be able to get.
TIP - Brazil and Australia
Group G
Switzerland (4) v Korea Rep (4)
France (2) v Togo (0)
If France win, only one of the two leading teams will progress (with Switzerland holding the advantage at this stage). If France don't win, both Switzerland and Korea Rep will progress.
TIP: Korea Rep to beat Switzerland; France to probably beat Togo.
Group H
Like Group F, Spain is Safe, and the Ukraine are in control of their destiny.
Spain v Saudi Arabia should not rock the boat.
Ukraine v Tunisia will be interesting. A draw for Ukraine is enough, and should be achievable.
TIP: Spain and Ukraine.

Notional Round of 16: (although it is quite possible that Netherlands will swap with Argentina)
Germany v Sweeden
Netherlands v Mexico
Italy v Australia
Korea Rep v Ukraine

England v Ecuador
Portugal v Argentina
Brazil v Ghana
Spain v France

Agony and Extacy

2006-06-19T20:04:00.000+10:00

Overnight was perhaps one of the hardest games of soccer to watch in a long time. (It also seems to fit the feelings you get having been a long-suffering fan). Watching Australia go so close to putting Brazil through a tough workout was painful. Watching it all slip away in the end was hard. Watching the referee efficiously deny Australia as effectively as our strikers inaccuracy did was very difficult. Knowing that Friday morning is a chance to fix it up, doesn't change the frustration.

Also Overnight, Geoff Ogilvie won the US Open Golf. Congrats for achieving a winning score of 5+ (which seems unusually high), but a win is a win, especially in a major.

Sport has hassles because a loss is eventually inevitable, the joys will wear off, and the great times will not last, but still, it is nice for a short while.

Live-Blogging Brazil v Australia

2006-06-18T22:56:00.000+10:00

The other group F match is about to start. I plan on live-blogging from 2am, come back and have a look then for the updates.

Japan 0 - Croatia 0
The destiny of the Socceroos is now clearly in their own hands. A win to Japan may have helped more, but any result tonight should be almost enough. Only an hour to go.

Looks like we are ready to go!!! From the national anthem noise there are lots of Aussies in the crowd too.
3 mins
Not a bad start, a bit of a worry how much space is left the 10 metres in front of the box though.
14 mins
Things are a bit testy, Brazil are being roughed up, very interesting start.
27th Min
The game has settled into a good rythym, although Brazil are looking every so often like they are about to score. Good work from our defenders though.
34 min
Shot Count on Screen BRA 4 - 5 AUS; It almost doesnt feel like it, we have been on the back foot for a lot of the game, but a few recent moves have been excellent.
40 mins
Popovich off Bresciano On - Sad to see such an injury impact a stalwart.
Half-Time 0-0!
49th Min 1-0 Brazil, Adriano good placement
54 Min
Chance for Bresciano, we can still create things; Sterjovski also has a good shot.
56 Min
Kewell butchers his first touch, ARGH!!!
65 Min
With 25 to go, I wonder what is likely to happen. I am starting to think that our three or four good chances have been and gone. We have to wait and see though.
67 min
Harry's third chance in 10 mins on the field... we need to just wait and see.
68 Min
Aloisi for Moore, another attacking change.
71 Min
Ronaldo is subbed, he laid off the ball for Adriano's goal, but otherwise has been a bit underwhelming.
79 Min
Bresciano puts in a decent shot, but as usual, no relaxation, Brazil on the attack.
85 Min
ARGHHHH... Viduka almost does it.
89 Mins
Unlucky second goal to Brazil, so close yet so far. Fred seems to be a Christian, but I cant think we expected a win.
Something just hasnt clicked for Viduka today.
Oh well, a gallant effort which would be worth keeping in mind before playing Croatia.
Full Time Brazil 2-0
I hope Australia plays that well next week. We might see a bit more of them if they do.

Groups C to E

2006-06-18T13:31:00.000+10:00

Another two nights of Cup Matches, another series of groups to discuss.

Group C
Argentina and the Netherlands are through, they will play each other to work out the placings. (Tip: Argentina based on Current Form to top the group)

Group D
It is pretty similar here: Portugal and Mexico are through, with their game to determine rankings. Portugal has the coach of the 2002 Brazil Team, and are playing well. (Tip: Portugal to beat Mexico, or possibly a draw - but Angola still have a chance if Mexico lose).

Group E
If you only have a passing interest in the Cup, and have to rationalise your time, the morning of June 23 will be critical for Australia. Not just because it will determine if we make the second round (unless events tonight do that), but because a few hours earlier it will decide who we play against...
Italy on 4 points can get through with a win or a draw against the Czechs, but will probably miss out if they lose.
Czech Republic on 3 points needs to beat Italy to guarantee a spot.
Ghana on 3 points needs what is likely to be a win or a draw against the US, (although if both games are drawn, they miss out).
The US on 1 point needs a big win to boost their goal difference, which would possibly let them through.
This is what the group phase is all about. Stand by if results permit for similar frustration with Groups F, G and H.

Saturday Night

2006-06-17T21:16:00.000+10:00

Making News in Sport In the Past 24 Hours

I had to referee my own team in club soccer today, because there was no-one else there. Was at times very hard to be fair, but I tried to do so.
Wests Win Again (finally)... but looking at the NRL Ladder it seems a bit of a joke. The top 10 teams are within 6 points. Who knows what will happen with about 10 weeks to go. I might have to ask Grimmo for a tip at Mid Year Conference
Argentina and the Netherlands are through to the Final 16. Those Argentinians really know how to score goals. 6-0!
Another NRL Friday Night ends in a nail-biter, kind-of like the whole comp. (Dragons 18- Broncos 16) - A Dragon also seems to have become acquainted with the Brisbane Police too.
Pete announces live-blogging weill happen for the Brazil Match!!! (So set that alarm for 2am and turn on your computer too).
Tiger Woods is eliminated before the Cut at the US Open
Lleyton Hewitt ends Rafael Nadal's winning streak (albeit on grass, so he has still won 60 games in a row on clay).
Mexico flop against Angola 0-0.

Group A and B

2006-06-16T08:19:00.000+10:00

World Cup Group Phases throw up some interesting results...

Group A
I said:

Germany is the favourite. Home Crowds, Good Team, Strong History.
Ecuador is the sentimental side here. South American Football, Exciting, Fast, Need I say more.

Result: Germany and Ecuador Qualify. I think Ecuador have exceeded all my expectations at this stage. I am not really surprised that Germany are on 6 points, but Ecuador have played such an attractive brand of football, it will be interesting to see who comes out on top.

Group B
I said:

England is possibly the favourite, apart from their propensity to get beaten in matches against Australia, I think they tend to bring their best out at Cups.
Trinidad and Tobago are perhaps sentimentals, although I'm not sure how well they do. Must have something to do with a link to Sydney FC.

Result so far: England are through; Paraguay are going home, and Trinidad and Tobago almost brought Sweeden to their knees with a beautiful 0-0 draw. Sweeden have been underwhelming in attack, but with 4 points now, they are pretty likely to go through.

Group C and D are getting going tonight.
The Netherlands and Argentina look fairly safe, as does Mexico and Portugal. As with Group A now, the final match should be an interesting one, not for who progresses, but rather where they finish.

First Games Over... What about the Picks

2006-06-15T09:32:00.000+10:00

If you look at today's scoreboard for Group A, you can start to feel the importance of a first round win, especially when you aren't playing the top side in your pool.

The games that have decided results so far that fit this category would probably include:
Ecuador v Poland (putting Ecuador with a chance, and Poland Out) - Group A
Czech Republic v USA (putting the USA out) - Group E
Australia v Japan (making it almost impossible for Japan) - Group F
I am also tempted to add Spain v Ukraine, but I am not 100% sure that fits yet.

Key Games to watch for points qualification in the second set of matches (Times in AEST - Sydney):
Group A: Costa Rica v Ecuador (15/6 11pm)
Group B: Sweeden v Paraguay (16/6 5am)
Group F: Japan v Croatia (18/6 11pm)
Group G: France v Korea (19/6 5am); Switzerland v Togo (19/6 11pm)
Group H: Saudi Arabia v Ukraine (20/6 2am)

The other matches will be still important, but these matches will have a direct bearing on their whole group's chances. This is getting serious now, and exciting.

Passion in Sport is Everything

2006-06-14T22:03:00.000+10:00

One of the keys I keep getting reminded of in sport is that passion wins matches.

After watching the NSW Blues lose so comprehensively, there is only one question that needs to be asked. Did they forget to care? Were they too relaxed before kick-off? Did they think they would win without a fight?

With all this talk of NSW being the dominators of Origin, it seems the Media forgot Queensland lost the last game by 1 point. No 1 point victory can ever make the series, no trip into Queensland can go without problems, and no desecration of statues can fail to fire up the Queenslanders.

Lesson: Be Passionate. It is rep football, value the jumper. If nothing else, learn that from the Socceroos.

Daily World Cup Roundup

2006-06-14T12:36:00.000+10:00

Korea v Togo
The Koreans look to be on form. Will watch a bit more of the match before deciding too much about their prospects in what seems an interesting group.
A win in Europe should do them well though, and possibly quieten some of the knockers of their 2002 performance.
Togo sacked their coach last week, and then reinstated him before the game, seems an interesting approach.

France v Switzerland
The Swiss have a good recent record against the French. The French have a poor record, not having scored a goal in Korea/Japan 2002, and not starting with one here, may be wondering what has happened. We await with interest the reverse fixtures.

Brazil v Croatia
I am not sure what to think here. Everyone seems to think that Brazil played below their best, and Croatia are in good form. I will probably hold my judgement till later in the group phase. Australia has beaten Brazil before, but I am not sure they will next time they meet.
This game is a good reminder of something else. This is the World Cup, any game is tough, and every team is good. No one does well at this level by fluking it.

Origin-al Thoughts

2006-06-14T08:44:00.000+10:00

There are rumours that State of Origin as a concept is almost dead because of the ongoing success of NSW teams.

Oh how that would amuse those Blues players who slogged so hard to win back in the 1980s.

The Broncos had for a while too much of a stranglehold on Queensland development in the 1990's, and only North Queensland and a few other non-Qld NRL teams took the odd high-quality players to develop them properly.

I personally cannot see how the concept is inherently likely to fail just because NSW win, but I also can't see how Queensland can do ok tonight, NSW just have too strong a line up (but then again, they almost pulled off a win last time too with a similar team).

Update: Some NSW Fans seem to show a lack of respect for Origin

Is it really as good as people are saying...

2006-06-13T18:10:00.000+10:00

I dont know about you, but the great joy we felt last night isn't really past of a process, but some of the hysterics in the media would have you believe that we won the whole World Cup.

Imagine if we had lost 1-0, I am sure that there would have been some very unkind things said about the refereeing decision.

It is appropriate that they have put on the news (at least on Channel 7) some of the reaction from fans in Japan. It must be hard to have all your world cup dreams shattered in the first match (just as we throught was about to happen to us).

The Aussies Won, But what else happened

2006-06-13T13:23:00.000+10:00

I know Australia's win is of supreme importance. Tim Cahill is in supreme form. So are many of the Australian side. But there were a few other things happening in sport since Sunday's wrap-up.

In the World Cup
Italy and the Czech Republic have continued what is a notional European dominance (dented by Trinidad and Tobago, and by Ecuador).

In the Rugby
Australia Beat England easily; New Zealand Beat Ireland. The dominance of the Southern Hemisphere seems to be reasserting itself.

League
Canberra defeats Bulldogs, which is a nice result.
Parramatta drenched by the Storm. (The crowd at Parra Stadium made me think there is club soccer there, not NRL).
Origin Tomorrow Night, interesting comments have been made and will continue to be observed.

Tennis
Rafael beats Roger, and things look quite interesting. Definately a change at least on clay has been happening, how much this impacts Roger longer term we will have to wait and see.

Live Blog #1 - Australia v Japan

2006-06-12T22:46:00.000+10:00

I know that anyone who is anyone can simply go and watch the game on television, but if you want to get informed coverage, then ignore the stupid "I told you so" backdrop on SBS, and check out this site. The thoughts and issues will be updated when appropriate, and the plan is to do this for all games Australia plays.

Let's Go.

Pre-game
The wait is ok, at least Rale and Ned are ok about things. Time to go grab some refreshment, and settle in for the national anthems.
Isn't it great to see so many Aussies so proud to be Australian. (Even the players got all the words right).

0 Minutes
Luke Wilkshire is Starting, so is Kewell, should be a good sign for them, although Wilkshire perhaps was a bit to zealous for his place in the side against the Netherlands.
1 min
Oh dear, that tackle was pretty late, not the best spot for defending a free kick either... but the wall stops it adequately.
6 min
Viduka takes a good chance, the keeper does ok to stop it, Corner; Corner Again.
10 mins
Things are settling into a rythym now, looks like there will be lots of good open running play, attack and counter attack.
16 min
Lots of long ball into space, but things are good that way, seems to keep picking out Aussie strikers with opportunities.
22 min
Wilkshire's defence looks like it is a weak spot. Two or three solid runs there makes me question whether he will hold out for the game. Look for Guus maybe to change things up there (maybe in the second half) if things keep going.
26 mins
Japan Score, but the decision to allow it was absolutely woeful. Clear foul, FIFA will send the ref home tonight if he does that again.
38 mins
Yellow Card Count: Australia 1 - Japan 2
Score 0-1
Diplomatic Incidents - None confimed, but it appears that there might be one against Egypt if things don't clear up.
Half Time
Things have settled down, hopefully Australia keeps their heads, and take the chances when they come. But in terms of the SBS Coverage, the only thing worse than the decision to have the goal scored was Kim Beazley waffling about how proud we are about the socceroos in a pre-recorded segment - Can't he just speak like a normal person for once???

Second Half We need to get in and play hard, if we keep going the way we are, we can score a few goals, just need the will to.
50 Min
Things are a blt slow, Dad doesn't like my idea of declaring war over a soccer game, I wonder if we should publish some cartoons instead?
The substitutes wehrn they come should add some needed zest to our Midfield.
52 min
Cahill on - Bresciano Off. Should have the same effect as it did in the friendlies, or so I hope.
59 Min
Our Long Balls aren't hitting their target, a bit of a shame, but that one almost let to a heart attack.
60 min
Moore off - Kennedy On (Shift from Defence to Attack)
68 Min
Viduka just can't beat him. Argh...
Last Sub
Wilkshire Off, Aloisi On. Go John, make it count.
83 min
Good chance again from a free kick; not a bad effort, but not enough. Goal to Cahill!!!!!!!!!!
1-1
87 Min
I think the Japanese won't flood anymore. War and Cartoons might be unnecessary, but we will have to wait for the final whistle. Close calls now, just a bit of a concern as things get interesting again.
89 Min
Call off the war. We are up 2-1!!! Cahill.
92 min
Aloisi 3-1!!!! You Legend
Full Time
We are in a pretty good spot now. I think there is a good chance of us qualifying now.
What a Birthday Present. I think I will enjoy that moment for a while, just goes to show that you need to play for the whole 90 Minutes.

Time to Shine

2006-06-12T19:31:00.000+10:00

Tonight is the opportunity the Socceroos have been waiting 32 years for.

Getting to strut their skills on the world stage is a huge honour, and should not be taken lightly.

I like many other fair minded soccer fans will be going a bit crazy tonight, but hopefully it will all pay off.

It is time for the Socceroos to Shine, and they will do us proud.