Go the Socceroos!!

This afternoon was set aside to watch Australia's first world cup match against Japan. There was talk of going to a pub, but as it was showing on free-to-air TV, we stayed at home. By "we" I'm referring to myself and Damien (brother-in-law), who took the afternoon off work to watch this all important game.

Before the game, I changed into my generic green-and-gold "Australia" shirt, which I bought at Sydney airport on my way out. Damien was wearning a Wallabies shirt. There was a feeling of nervousness, given the importance of a win if Australia is to have any hope of getting into the second round (as it's almost certain Brazil will be going through).

When Australia's national anthem came on, we both stood automatically. We didn't sing though (there were guys around painting the house).

From the beginning, it seemed that the referee was showing favour to the Japanese team. This was proven beyond a shadow of a doubt when Japan "scored". For those who haven't heard, Australia's goalie was fouled while trying to defend, though somehow the ref missed this fact. Things were looking more and more hopeless, and Damo's swearing was getting louder and more obscene.

I wondered during this time, what the feeling about this game would be at CISRA.

Then, in the 84th minute, Cahill scored the equilizer. Shouts of exhilaration followed. Five minutes later, he scored again. Can we nominate this guy for Australian of the year? Then, another substitute, Aloisi, scored a third goal. He seemed to try and put his shirt over his head, but only got it as far as his mouth. I guess they wear tighter shirts nowadays. Damien tells me Aloisi is the reason that Australia is in the world cup, having scored the equalizer against Uruguay in the qualifier. Another hero!

After watching the game, I'm proud to say that I didn't see any Aussie player do the roll on the ground and act injured thing. Japan, sadly, did it lots.

Damien wants me to mention here that the Wallabies played like crap yesterday against England, and still kicked their arse.

P.S. Today was another stinking hot and sunny day. How's the weather in Sydney and Brisvegas?