Thursday, June 15, 2006
It's footy, but not as we know it
A full 34 years since first kicking a football in a World Cup finals tournament, the Australian "Socceroos" this time have managed to kick one into the net. Then repeat teh feat twice more and go on and win their first ever game.

To stand any chance of progressing beyong the first round, beating Japan was absolutely a pre-requisite. There could be a miracle against Croatia, but against Brazil (the next game) there is no hope for the Socceroos.

And with just 10 minutes left against Japan, it didn't look good. With a dodgy goal against, it seemed nothing that Viduka, Kewell or Cahill could throw at the Japanese was destined to make a difference. The Socceroos were as good as on their way home, with hardly a decent kanga-bound made.

It wasn't genius that turned it. Just all of a sudden the tide of luck seems to turn in behind you: the goal mouth that seemed so small and well protected, all of a sudden appears 35 yards wide and you can't miss.

The three goals in not many more minutes could make all the difference if the group comes down to goal difference to decide second place.

Australia has some new heroes. Lockyer, Johns, Warne, Larkham and Thorpe are now joined by Viduka, Kewell and Cahill.

Well, at least until next week anyway.

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