World Cup 2006

Crazy Maltese Italians celebrate the World Cup Final victory

2006-07-18T22:34:00.000+10:00

Crazy Maltese Italians celebrate the World Cup Final victory
Originally uploaded by bennyonacid.

One final post from me - this is a shot of the celebrations in Marsascala (Malta) when the Italians fluked the World Cup Final.

I'd have had $320 in my pocket if France had won.

2006-07-11T19:31:00.000+10:00

Maltalia

2006-07-11T06:22:00.000+10:00

The streets went wild with an awful lot of unnecessary honking last night as the Maltese-Italians celebrated their very lucky win.

I thought France were good.

Mandy and I liked Zidane's headbutt. Silly way to leave your last International game, but I'd like to find a replay of that on youTube.

Yes mr telepathy, that's it for another WC blog. The next question is when shall we start the one for 2008? Or perhaps we should practise with a Euro'08 effort as well.

Alas, let's make those decisions at a later stage. For now it's back to the bar in Marsascala for a Cisk and a packet of Twistees.

Ciao.
Brewery.

The last post

2006-07-05T20:52:00.000+10:00

Der-der-der der-der-der...

My top three most enjoyable games:
Australia 2 Croatia 2
Argentina 2 Mexico 1
Portugal 1 Holland 0

Some other good ones!
Germany 4 Costa Rica 2
Italy 1 USA 1
Argentina 6 Serbia & Montenegro 0
Spain 3 Tunisia 1
France 3 Spain 1

If there were any other good games, then I was probably asleep or at work, or both.

And that's it from me.

Thanks.

I'm out of here.

And now, the end is near, and so we face our final curtains

2006-07-05T20:48:00.000+10:00

Is that it then? Has this blog reached its end? A lot of football water's passed under the bridge since I last updated. Have we lost the World Cup will to live since our ghastly inevitable godawful sweaty agonising exit at the weekend?

By the way, I tipped Italy before it all began, not that anyone remembers.

Portugal disqualified

2006-07-05T20:43:00.000+10:00

It's alleged that one of the Portuguese football players failed a drugs and alcohol test after the match. If this is confirmed as positive, under World Football Federation rules, paragraph 6 sub section 2e, Portugal will forfeit the quarter final match and England will play France in the Semi Final on Wednesday.
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Scroll down for the full transcript of this report.

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Carlsberg do not send emails, but if they did they
would probably be the best emails in the world.

2006-06-30T11:18:00.000+10:00

Last post from me from Sydney before heading back to the UK to watch England demolish Portugal, then Brazil and then beat Germany 4-1 in the final with a hat-trick from Aaron Lennon in extra time.

2006-06-27T09:13:00.000+10:00

Mandy enjoys a Toohey's New Shandy in the Surf Rock Cafe in Collaroy before the penalty.

It was never a penalty ref. Was it? I mean I know you've got to watch your footing in the penalty area, especially with the Italians, but that close to extra time I mean come on. We wanted extra time. Not some anti-climactic dodgy decision.

This is Mandy and Louisa in the first half before the effects of beer at 2am on 3 hours sleep started to take effect. You can tell that because in this picture they are standing up.

A terrible way for Australia to go out, especially considering how much above their expected level of performance they'd played in their 4 games.

Despite the penalty incident, Neill was for me their player of the tournament.

I can still taste beergate (a new cocktail I invented for the World Cup contining beer and Colgate).

ENGLAND 1-0 ECUADOR

2006-06-26T14:45:00.000+10:00

England beat Ecuador but they were boring. So I've attached a photo of a funny shirt instead.

Should I shouldn't I?

2006-06-24T18:55:00.000+10:00

I am debating whether or not to wake up to watch the Germany v Sweden game. Of course I know I will end up doing so, but the thought of waking up at the weekend at 1am and crawling out of a warm bed in the middle of Winter is not appealing.

I predict Germany 0-0 Sweden, then a golden German goal.

Jurgen Klinsmann: "We mustn’t be eliminated – we’re a football nation. Even a quarter-final exit would be a catastrophe."

It gets serious now

2006-06-24T02:11:00.000+10:00

World Cup Sh*t

2006-06-22T21:42:00.000+10:00

Three things that are sh*t about the World Cup:

1) I can't find a World Cup venue on Sydney's Northern Beaches that is showing the Australia game. Our local pub advertises "All World Cup Soccer games here LIVE" but when calling them they say "nah mate we're shut".

2) I got one point out of 4 in my tipping content and am now 9 points behind the leader.

3) I am behind Mandy in the tipping contest.

World Cup Fatigue

2006-06-21T23:13:00.000+10:00

Is it setting in yet? Are you still chained to a radiator? Don't tell anyone, but I'm almost looking forward to the first World Cup day off next week.

In the meantime, and in an attempt to break the site, here is a load of rubbish which was sent to me via the email, titled "Crouch - a man of many talents":

Re: AUS BRA

2006-06-20T00:13:00.000+10:00

Are you being held hostage in a hotel room until the end of the month? It looks awfully glamorous.

I saw AUS BRA in a trendy club. It cost seven quid to get in, and then it took half a bleeding hour to get a drink. Never again.

It was (surprise) full of Brazilians and Aussies. I was very much on the Sheilaroos' side, but despite a brave performance, it wasn't to be. I was thinking of you, propping up your eyelids at 3 in the morning, chuckling away at fatty Ronaldo.

Right now there is TOG SWI online, but I can't raise much enthusiasm for that. It would be nice if once of the ARS players in this game scored, then they could join Rosicky, Ljungberg, van Persie, Henry as World Cup goalscorers.

BRAZIL V AUSTRALIA - half time report

2006-06-19T02:55:00.000+10:00

0-0?

I wonder what the odds for that would have been.

Australia are actually defending quite well. They're closing down the Brazillians quite effectively, but let's not forget that Brazil are also not making the most of some of their chances. They need to start taking some more risks though.

The earlier game between Croatia and Japan was a draw, so Australia can lose this and still go through to the 2nd round if they draw against Croatia. I think Guus should bring on Kewell at some point in the 2nd half.

All of a sudden qualification seems possible.

I was going to take a photo of the game, but there was nothing of note in the replays, so here's a shot of the view from my hotel room instead. It's a bridge in Canberra, in the dark, with no cars on it. What a fascinating blog this has become.

peter crouch

2006-06-17T08:47:00.000+10:00

peter crouch
Originally uploaded by bennyonacid.

We went to the local RSL to watch it. There were 5 other people there and one of them was the bouncer.

So we watched the 2nd half at home, which was much better.

I thought we weren't all that convincing.

I wanted to see a robot dance but was sadly let down.

Live: Argentina v Serbia & Montenegro

2006-06-16T23:56:00.000+10:00

Watching at work is great, apart from you can't really watch as you have to do some work. It also spurred me on to figure out how to take screen captures of streaming Real Video. The boys in the studio are drooling over Argentina. They look streets ahead. England, meanwhile, have been woeful in spite of winning both games.

2006-06-14T00:46:00.000+10:00

At this moment in time, right now, as I write / type this, I am sat in Rydges Melbourne on level 12, room 03, it's 12:45am and Korea are leading Togo 2-1.

Togo took the lead of course. But Korea are gradually bringing it back.

I am making the most of the in-room HSIA and it's actually quite mega.

I've just ordered a veggie pizza on room service (it's all they have after 11pm) and gave the nice man a massive tip of $0. I'm in Melbourne on some website training gubbins. It's 7degrees, I'm cold and I miss my wife.

I'm also going to wake up to watch Brazil despite the fact that means I'll have 4 hours sleep for the second night in a row before a whole day's presentations and then a flight to Brisbane tomorrow night.

Work is SO overrated. Can I go home now?

"Ecuador my life, football my passion, the cup my goal"

2006-06-13T21:26:00.000+10:00

I got Ecuador in the office sweepstake, so I am mainly suppoting them. They had an excellent start against Poland, so a win against Costa Rica will see them through. We might meet those spoiled overrated plodders England (my 'other' team) in the next round so there may be some split loyalties.

Wizards of Oz etc...

2006-06-13T21:20:00.000+10:00

My friend Paul in Spain says that John Aloisi is the friendliest footballer he's ever spoken to. So, well done to him and hats off to Australia for their exciting win. Did you go nuts? Are you still there?

2006-06-12T19:16:00.000+10:00

Well it's the big one tonight. Big if you're Australian that is.

Last time they were in the World Cup they pulled off a "monumentous" draw against Chile. Ok, yes that's right I said Chile, and what they don't tell you whenever they recount that match on the TV is that it was a 0-0 draw. Yes that's right, in the 1974 World Cup they didn't win a game and didn't score a goal.

But that's supposed to all change today.

Japan is a must win game for Australia. You don't fancy them getting anything from the Brazil tie, and Croatia will be a tough ask, so a draw probably won't cut it for the Socceroos.

I've put them down to lose in my tipping contest. According to the stats 70% of tippers are backing an Aussie win and 10% a draw.

Groo, any pre-match musings?

Matchday 2 - Report from Sydney

2006-06-11T10:11:00.000+10:00

Yes the England game was a bit of a let down after a good start. I thought after the deflected goal and the attacking moves that followed that we might be on to a good score here, but alas no.

Oohh that Mexican ref. He (Dracula) got a few swear words amogst our group. I was particularly annoyed by the way Peter Crouch would get penalised for anything like scratching his arse. I mean come on, he's a HUGE lad, he's going to knock the other players now and again but he wasn't doing anything wrong. Certainly not deserving of the number of decisions against him.

We had a lovely meal by the way, baked veggies with goat's cheese served in a pumpkin followed by Mandy's golden syrup steamed pudding. Culinary triumph's all round.

Yes, Skype skype skype...

We drove home and watched 10 minutes of the Sweden game then decided to go to sleep. A wise move. Great to see T&T get a World Cup point, and very good for us now that we're firmly on top of the table. Although the T&T game this week won't necessarily be the walkover we first thought.

Didn't watch the Argentina game. I was in bed dreaming of being pulled over for drink-driving for some reason.

Next big game over here now is Australia v Japan tomorrow at 11pm. The TV and papers are full of beaming Socceroos.

Come on Rooney, get off that bench and give us some England goals.

Three game days

2006-06-11T08:41:00.000+10:00

Well, I'd forgotten the dedication it takes to watch three World Cup games in one World Cup day. It's exhausting, but I'm proud of myself for putting in the hours.

England was not all that good in my estimation and Sven's substitutions were questionable, and his decision not to take a fifth striker was shown up for the MISTAKE he'll never admit it is. Still, a win is three points and we can only improve.

You'll be pleased to hear I swore vociferously at the fussy Mexican referee, especially when he yellow carded Steven Gerrard. We played too many long balls and lost possession too much, especially in the hot conditions, I thought. The studio guests said that Sven's years in Italy meant that he's content to defend a one goal lead - but what about the players?

The most ridiculous moment though was when Paul Robinson kicked the ball upfield and it bounced back at him off the hi-tech video screen thing hanging miles above the stadium.

Sweden v Trinidad & Tobago being a 0-0 was the best result for England. T&T did extremely well, and I was delighted they got a result after going down to ten men shortly after half time. Shaka Hislop was excellent after being called in to replace the number one choice keeper, who tripped over going into the changing room or something.

Talking of goalkeeping heartbreaks, you had to feel sorry for the Paraguay keeper who went off after only six minutes against England after doing himself a mischief following a clearance.

After SWE TRI there wasn't much of a rest before ARG CIV (Argentina v Ivory Coast). Are there any World Cup three letter abbreviations which could make up a proper word - like if Wales and Russia were to play it would be WAL RUS? Never mind.

ARG CIV was another ITV game, and their commentators are really annoying me. It's never bothered me much before but the crass comments and pathetic attempts at humour are doing my head - Tyldesley and (yes) Drury are the offenders. A poll on the BBC website (no bias then) comes out 90% in favour of the BBC coverage so far.

I'd have liked the Ivory Coast to have got a result but Argentina were deserving 2-1 winners. They look top quality. The Elephants look very useful too, and are still very capable of qualifying from a tough group.

After all that was Rio's World Cup Wind-Ups (ITV of course), where Rio Ferdinand played Beadlesque prankster tricks on his unsuspecting England mates. It was terrible and I really enjoyed it.

World Cup fever!

2006-06-10T21:26:00.000+10:00

I am almost overwhelmed by the fever.

The country is gone mad.

It's also the hottest day of the year. Ever. Lobster faces and outdoor lager drinking ahoy!

We need to fix up a Skype session Mr Brewery.

I was reading our 2002 journal - lots I'd forgotten!

2006-06-10T17:01:00.000+10:00

Making preparations for the England game:

1) Looking up the Tottenham players to make sure that when asked Spurs related questions I can answer with some level of education. A lot's changed since I last saw them play.

2) Watching replays of the games from last night.

3) Changing my tips for the games tonight (for the 5th time).

4) Choosing trousers to go with my England top. Jeans I think.

We're off to a friend's house (English couple) to watch the game. I'm taking a bottle of Rosé and 12 cans of lager. I think that should just about be enough, but it's England so you can't be too careful.

Mandy's made a golden syrup steamed pudding for half-time. I bet they don't get that in the changing rooms.

Come on England. And come on Telepathy, we need your thoughts on day 1...

GERMANY 4-2 COSTA RICA

2006-06-10T07:40:00.000+10:00

Hang on, World Cup opening games are supposed to be goalless bore-draws aren't they. Or if the scorekeeper is troubled, it's normally for a scrappy penalty area fumble or painful deflection. We're certainly not used to long-range thunderbolts like Philip Lahm's opening curler, or Fring's decisive final blow. ("Fring's that make you go hmmmm" as the Sun's back page perhaps?)

And linesmen getting it right, what the? Wanchope was definitely offside wasn't he? Well that's what I was saying to the dog on the sofa when I saw his first goal, but the replay told another story - a very tight but 100% accurate decision.

The Germans looked pretty good. Ok so their defense wasn't all that watertight, but they played well. Who do you think you are kidding Jurgen Klinsmann? On this occasion, nobody. What a great start to a World Cup management career.

The new ball? Well the Drury's still out on that one. Being 'keeper unfriendly might make the game more excting, but did you see how much it moves in the air on those long range kicks? You want the goalie to have some chance of stopping the shot - if the ball is moving around its original trajectory during flight how can he be expected to get a solid block to it? I forsee goals going in this year that would have been stopped previously. Probably the first of which being a last minute strike from Paraguay tomorrow.

A great game on it's own merit, but all the more appealing as the opener to an already exiting tournament.

Now back to bed.

2006-06-09T19:12:00.000+10:00

I just ignored my own advice and entered the work sweepstake as well. $10 entry and $320 to the winner. I drew .... wait for it ... France, which could have been worse. My boss got Togo. I didn't even bother trying to make him feel better, that's $10 down the drain.

Australia is gearing up for the opening ceremony. SBS has a gubberama of programming from 7pm tonight, and the ceremony starts at midnight. The opener kicks off at 2am. I am not going to bed.

I have beer in the fridge, the heating's on, Mandy's making dinner and I feel prepared and ready to go.

Flag watch *** Flag watch *** Flag watch
There aren't that many flags in Sydney, but the Sun Herald (Sunday rag) gave away a free Australia car flag (one of those jobbies that attaches to the window). But they weren't very well made so every now and again you see green and gold fabric and bits of plastic lining the streets.

More updates later. SBS coverage starting now.

One Day

2006-06-09T00:49:00.000+10:00

I'm mainly concentrating on the Metro Free World Cup Fantasy Football game, though I'm not that interested in it, but there's a small league going with some of the guys I play football with. Other than that, the office sweepstake takes place tomorrow, in the kitchen, two pounds each, big hat. Last night, I dreamed that I picked out Saudi Arabia and pretended I was happy about it.

The BBC (bless em) are showing all their games LIVE online so people can watch in the office, while pretending to work. Only available to UK internet users (licence fee thing). Is Aussie TV showing everything? There was some whinger on telly this morning going on about the £100m British business will lose by people watching the World Cup. Where's it going exactly? And who's losing it? I'd gladly pay £100m to win the World Cup. Just like Roman Abramovich's happy to fork out £200m to win the Premiership the Champions League and the Grand National.

London is awash in flags, hanging from windows, attached to cars. This time tomorrow...

Tipster Tipster

2006-06-07T19:01:00.000+10:00

The final reminder email went out about our Football tipping content today. Then immediately afterwards I received another one from Fox Sports about their fantasy league. Then there's the one on the Fifa website.

My inital reaction was to enter them all, but what with juggling work and waking up at 2am for the matches I need to concentrate on just one.

So I'm going all out on the work competition. There are less entrants, there is a 1 in 20 chance of a $400 prize, and beating people you know is always much more fun.

Now I need to determine my strategy - do I go for the obvious winners or do I look to slide away from the group with a few controversial choices (Germany losing to Costa Rica perhaps)? I've put in all of my tips for the group games, but I'm bound to change my mind after seeing a few teams play. Perhaps Equador will be a surprise qualifier, could Korea beat France, and shock horror perhaps England will win their first game - nah, that never happens.

2 days to go, I need a wee I'm that excited.

The real Soccer Roo

2006-06-06T22:51:00.000+10:00

Will he, won't he? Is he, will he? World Cup Willy? Will he Goleo to the World Cup? One has to feel sorry for Jermain Defoe, who flew off to Germany with the rest of the squad, knowing that he'll be sent home if Rooney gets the all-clear. Thanks for coming, the taxi's outside, go home and watch us on telly.

I got a Jermain Defoe solid plastic statue in my Sainsbury's "Football Heroes" pack. If he does end up being in the team, I will display him on my telly. If not, he's in the bin.

2006-06-06T21:33:00.000+10:00

Thanks to Player1 (http://www.blogger.com/profile/23289084) for recounting more memories of the 1986 World Cup where David Platt didn't score.

Nice to hear you lived in Thredbo as well, as this is one of the companies that I now work for. Hope you still use their website: http://www.thredbo.com.au/ any feedback greatfully accepted.

And if you want to buy a set of Harman Kardon speakers, great quality, cheap price, then check out my auction on eBay: Harman Kardon Speakers. Shameless I know.

Now Telepathy my old friend. Is it me or are there 3 days to go until the World Cup?

Airbrushed tallywacker

2006-06-06T01:34:00.000+10:00

Here's a page where you can listen to some of the 30 World Cup songs doing the rounds. This shall be my final post on the topic.

2006-06-03T20:28:00.000+10:00

Just watched a great doco on SBS about England's World Cup history. You forget after a while how good some of theose games actually were. Like hitting the woodwork in extra time against the Germans in 1990, Shilton stumbling backwards after the lucky deflection, Psycho's penalty kick, Gazza's tears. Wonderful times.

There was something special about football in the 90's for me. Perhaps because that's when I started having distinct World Cup memories of my own rather than from replays (although Platt's extra time 1986 goal against Belgium is probably my earliest memory - I was sat at home in our living room and sepcifically remember jumping out of the chair when he turned under Gazza's cross and guided it home. I was on my own, the rest of the family didn't like football, and I was too young to be in the pub at that stage). Or perhaps it's because I was always a massive Lineker and Gazza fan (the Spurs connection helped) or perhaps because of Euro '96, I mean come on. That was the best tournament of all time, World Cups included. I don't think football for me will ever have a better decade than the 90's.

Now I feel all nostalgic. Game of Twister anyone?

"It's Political Correctness Gone Mad!"

2006-06-02T20:20:00.000+10:00

link

RoboCrouch

2006-06-01T23:04:00.000+10:00

Do you know, I am a bit out of the loops. I haven't even seen England's goals from the friendly against Hungary the other day. Peter Crouch's robot dance? A mystery to me, I'm afraid. It's probably on youtube...

Yes, here it is:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=96eSrFlUVh0&search=peter%20crouch

'wot a tit' comments JROWL405.

2006-06-01T20:34:00.000+10:00

Watch the World Cup on your computer with great sound from a set of Harmon Kardon multimedia speakers, available NOW online:

Great deal on computer speakers

2006-06-01T19:01:00.000+10:00

Today I discovered a news article about me and my recent World Cup activities.

Ok that's not entirely true. But the headline caught my attention.

The article in fact relates to a scientamologist at the Bayer laboratories who is looking at a football with an eyeglass. I'm sure this is all in the name of science, but come on, really. It's a football. FOOT-BALL! The bloke who lives behind us could have told you that and he only got one GSCE.

WC squads

2006-05-29T14:38:00.000+10:00

I normally delete these things, but this made me laugh (a bit):

ROMANIA
GK: Chatanoogaciouciou
DEF: Atishiou, Blessiou, Thankyiou
MID: Busqueue, Snookercu, Pennyciou, Twoapennyciou, Fourapennyciou
ATT: I'llgetciou, Youandwhosarmi

DENMARK
GK: Toomanigoalssen
DEF: Tryandstopussen, Crapdefenssen, Haveagossen
MID: Firstsson, Seccondsson, Thirdsson
ATT: Legshurtssen, Notroubleseeingussen, Wherestheballssen, Getthebeerssen

Soccer Aid

2006-05-28T20:54:00.000+10:00

The Soccer Aid game was loads of fun, and I am officially sorry for sneering at it. Good cause etc... and seeing Maradona and Gazza on the same pitch as "telly people" was a good laugh.

On the other side was Wales v Trinidad & Tobago, which was less appealing I'm afraid, although it is proper football and that.

I'm lovin' it (are you?)

2006-05-28T20:53:00.000+10:00

I signed up for the McDonald's/FIFA World Cup Fantasy Game on the Official TM FIFA TM World Cup TM Germany 2006 TM website. It's very compehensive (i.e. they have every player in the tournament) but a bit tortuous picking a squad of 23, plus half way through they interrogated me with a survey asking about my attitude towards McDonald's and sports sponsorship. Well, I told them in no uncertain terms, so I don't expect I'll be up for any special prizes.

Birthday Pressie

2006-05-27T09:20:00.000+10:00

This is a photo of my birthday present. My missus know she's not really going to see much of me for the month of June, so she thought I may as well be dressed appropriately.

Come to think of it, seeing as I'll be spending most of June in pubs drinking beer at 4am, she probably will be with me.

Either way, I'll be wearing my new England top (official one, not from the $10 shop on Pitt Street) when watching the boys.

England 'B' 1 Belarus 2

2006-05-26T20:10:00.000+10:00

Robert Green's injury was utterly absurd. Even I have never done such a thing. You know, sorry for the lad, but at least he's easily replaced and we'll hardly know he's missing.

A disappointing affair by all accounts (apart from Sven's account in which case it was a very useful affair, apart from the losing bit, although that isn't important). I didn't watch it. I only saw the 'highlights' on Sky Sports News. I'm saving myself for the big matches. Marathon not a sprint!

I was watching the Sopranos instead because I bid for all five box sets on eBay, and I won them, at a ridiculous price (ok, so they arrived from China and there are a few typos on the packaging, but never mind that, they're at least 99 per cent legit). So that's what I'll be mainly doing instead of watching Big Brother 7. I really can't be putting the time in with that as well as the World Cup.

I have also avoided ITV's ridiculous Soccer Aid, which has been on all this week. As far as I can gather, it's celebs and ex-players goofing about for charity. Robbie Williams is involved. I read that Maradona is making a surprise appearance in the 'Final' which is tomorrow, so I'll keep an eye out for that. Just one eye.

Rooney's toe scan results expected any minute... we are anticipating a mighty battle as Fergie refuses to let him go whatever the outcome. Best chance looks like he could be fit to play in about a month (UPDATE: he won't know for another three weeks). I'm not getting my hopes up. The sensible option would be to replace him with Defoe now.

Happy Australian crowd

2006-05-26T09:25:00.000+10:00

Happy Australian crowd
Originally uploaded by bennyonacid.

This was taken towards the end of the game. There was a general feeling of contentment amongst the crowd, but bored contentment nonetheless. The second half was rubbish. But we were on to our 6th schooner by then, and someone else was paying (company night out) so it was a good result for us.

And at the end of the day football was the winner.

Now the Socceroonies are off on a plane to their next game against Holland which should be interesting. Certainly should be a harder opponent for them than Greece were yesterday.

They didn't look like a team that have a chance to proceed to the second round, especially facing Japan, Brazil and Croatia. I think their only chance is with a win against Japan in their first game, and then either a miraculous result against Brazil or hoping that the other games go their way. It's going to be a tough ask either way.

I am now officially excited about the World Cup.

Grimace of delight from an Australian supporter

2006-05-26T09:09:00.000+10:00

Grimace of delight from an Australian supporter
Originally uploaded by bennyonacid.

Achdan from our IT department bought an Aussie shirt for the game.

Skoko's goal

2006-05-26T09:03:00.000+10:00

High quality still of the big TV screen replaying Skoko's goal
Originally uploaded by bennyonacid.

This high quality photographic image shows the Skoko goal being replayed on the big screen in the Oaks, Neutral Bay, where we watched the game.

And what a dull game it was.

2006-05-24T20:35:00.000+10:00

This is the poster all over the city of Sydney at the moment as yet another publication jumps on the Socceroonies bandwagon.

You can't turn the corner without Harry grinning back at you.

Travolta rumour denied

2006-05-23T21:19:00.000+10:00

"Although John Travolta is a Socceroos fan (and will be sending a personal greeting to the team ahead of the World Cup), there was never any plan for him to fly the team to the World Cup."

2006-05-23T21:03:00.000+10:00

Thought I'd steal Groo's idea - here's my bus entertainment for the way to work tomorrow. It's an Australian World Cup podcast by some bloke called Gino.

Beats the Daily SearchCast anyway...

2006-05-23T20:16:00.000+10:00

Today I also spent many hours moving around my schedule for June to make sure that I had clear space before and after what I consider the 6 key games. England's 3 and Australia's 3 group games.

England need to win their group, as this way if they get into the second round, I can watch their Quarter final on the day I get to the UK. If they finish second and progress, I will be flying during the quarter final.

This will be disastrous.

The picture is my calendar (right) and BBC wallchart (left).

I am very ex-coi-teeeed

2006-05-23T13:46:00.000+10:00

My preparation started when I nearly bought a Gold World Cup Coke at the weekend, but realised it was a full fat version and not the girly diet variety that I drink. So I left it.

My missus has downloaded a WC2006 desktop pattern to her Mac. It is swirly and purple and a bit too funky for my liking.

I have rescheduled meetings at work when realising that they coincided with England games. The England games are on at 11pm or 2am over here, so the last thing I want to do is witness an historic England victory, then waltz in to work after 4 pints at 9am with a day full of meetings. No, those days will all be about blogging and trips to the pub at lunchtime.

I am going to charge up the camera batteries and start snapping WC gubberama that I have seen recently such as Japanese students wearing Germany football tops (why oh why), keyrings for sale in the local BP garage and pictures of Harry Kewell on every sodding bus shelter.

Oh, and I joined our work footy tipping contest. $20 to enter and I am going to win.

Bringeth it on...

17 days 23 hours 41 minutes to go...

2006-05-23T02:18:00.000+10:00

It's all heating up now. I'm feeling the pressure. The pressure to keep on top of events, to know who's who and what's what. I've read an interview with Rio Ferdinand where he talks about his urine test in a room with a grinning Ronaldinho after the 2002 quarter final. Pele's got an album coming out. It sounds quite interesting, unlike Stan Boardman's World Cup song, which I heard accidentally - "singing ay-yay-yippee-yippee/ the Germans bombed our chippy". A blatant flouting of the don't mention the war clause. The Rooney toe situation's looking hopeful. Posters and ads are everywhere (must take some pictures). Also, must get World Cup mug from PG Tips (or is it Typhoo?) Have downloaded in-depth World Cup history and squad details onto my iPod. Entered competition to win tickets. Read up on the Berlin's Currywurst and Kaiserslauten's Pferdwurst (horsemeat sausage), mmm. Watched a report on Trindad & Tobago... selected my ideal Australian team... bought some more stickers... I feel ready.

2006-05-22T10:08:00.000+10:00

Thanks to Dr Han (Super football fans) for the comment on the previous post. He says it was "from www.fifaworldcup-yahoo.co.uk", but "contents from www.backachetherapy.co.uk".

Back breaking stuff this blogging.

2006-05-18T14:01:00.000+10:00

Seeing as my partner in blog won't be commenting on this, it's my duty to report the result of the last major championship final involving England players before the World Cup.

Arsenal 1 - 2 Barcelona

I didn't watch it. I was going to set the clock for 4.30am when it was on, but I forgot. Apparently it was a good game to watch for the neutral onlooker.

I saw a bloke in an Arsenal scarf walking home as I made my way to work. He looked drunk and full of hate.

2006-05-17T13:03:00.000+10:00

I was going to email this to nobby in the UK, but figured it could help pad out the content on our blog instead.

2006-05-16T19:09:00.000+10:00

Yes "Australia Socceroos – Bound for glory" is poor.

It should read "Don't turn off the engine driver, we'll be going back to the airport shortly".

Bus slogans

2006-05-16T00:52:00.000+10:00

This is the best thing so far. Each of the 32 team buses will carry a slogan, voted for by the fans apparently. Check 'em out. My top three:
France: "Egalite, Fraternite, Jules Rimet!"
Switzerland: "2006, it's Swiss o'clock!"
Cote d'Ivoire: "Come on the Elephants, win the World Cup in style!"

England's is rub, and Australia is Socceroo bollocks.

Theo

2006-05-12T14:40:00.000+10:00

He's a nice bloke, but face it we're f**ked.

And he doesn't eat enough kebabs to be a proper England attacking midfielder.

Theo

2006-05-12T01:20:00.000+10:00

I'm pleased by the complete lack of response to Sven's squad. It just goes to show that we can keep our thoughts to ourselves without feeling the need to blog about every little thing. Still, eh... has the man gone NUTS or what.

Here is an idiot's guide to Theo Walcott (link via Popbitch):

News just in: There was no dodgy lasagne, Spurs had winter vomiting syndrome!

World Cup - The Rules For Women

2006-05-05T16:52:00.000+10:00

1, From 9th June to 9th July 2006, you should read the sports section of the newspaper so that you are aware of what is going on regarding the World Cup, and that way you will be able to join in the conversations. If you fail to do this, then you will be looked at in a bad way, or you will be totally ignored. DO NOT complain about not receiving any attention.

2, During the World Cup, the television is mine, at all times, without any exceptions. If you even take a glimpse of the remote control, you will lose it (your eye).

3, If you have to pass by in front of the TV during a game, I don’t mind, as long as you do it crawling on the floor and without distracting me. If you decide to stand nude in front of the TV, make sure you put clothes on right after because if you catch a cold, I wont have time to take you to the doctor or look after you during the World Cup month.

4, During the games I will be blind, deaf and mute, unless I require a refill of my drink or something to eat. You are out of your mind if you expect me to listen to you, open the door, answer the telephone, or pick up the baby that just fell from the second floor... it wont happen.

5, It would be a good idea for you to keep at least 2 six packs in the fridge at all times, as well as plenty of things to nibble on, and please do not make any funny faces to my friends when they come over to watch the games. In return, you will be allowed to use the TV between 12am and 6am, unless they replay a good game that I missed during the day.

6. Please, please, please!! if you see me upset because one of my teams is losing, DO NOT say “get over it, its only a game”, or “don’t worry, they’ll win next time”. If you say these things, you will only make me angrier and I will love you less. Remember, you will never ever know more about football than me and your so called “words of encouragement” will only lead to a break up or divorce.

7, You are welcome to sit with me to watch one game and you can talk to me during halftime but only when the commercials are on, and only if the halftime score is pleasing me. In addition, please note I am saying “one” game, hence do not use the World Cup as a nice cheesy excuse to “spend time together”.

8, The replays of the goals are very important. I don’t care if I have seen them or I haven’t seen them, I want to see them again. Many times.

9, Tell your friends NOT to have any babies, or any other child related parties or gatherings that requires my attendance because:
a) I will not go,
b) I will not go, and
c) I will not go.
But, if a friend of mine invites us to his house on a Sunday to watch a game, we will be there in a flash.

10, The daily World Cup highlights show on TV every night is just as important as the games themselves. Do not even think about saying “but you have already seen this...why don’t you change the channel to something we can all watch??”, the reply will be: “Refer to Rule #2 of this list”.

11, And finally, please save your expressions such as “Thank God the World Cup is only every 4 years”. I am immune to these words, because after this comes the Champions League, Premier League, Italian League, Spanish League, etc etc.

12, Thank you for your co-operation.

Regards,
Men of the World

2006-05-05T08:48:00.000+10:00

Bring back Sheringham. Tell him to stop playing poker on Fox Sports with E-list Australian celebrities and pull his boots back on.

Are you listening Sven?

2006-05-04T21:38:00.000+10:00

So this is what I'd do. Leave Rooney behind. Say sorry pal, you're not going to make it. Stay at home and put your feet up and watch it on the telly like the rest of us, and try not to get too upset.

But who to take instead? My idea, which is mine, and may not be any good because I haven't had anything eat today is to take six strikers. Give them all a chance in the first round games. Rotate and substitute like nobody's business - 30 minutes each - one of them's bound to do something. Ashton, Beattie, Crouch, Defoe... can you see a pattern emerging?

Failing that, call Mystic Meg. Or David Blaine.

Thanks, I'm off to lunch...

Germany 4 England 2

2006-05-04T21:12:00.000+10:00

"Even Boris [Johnson], running around like a demented combine harvester and tackling like a prop forward, couldn't save England last night...

The red-shirted Tory MP was taking part in a charity football match, a light-hearted attempt to recreate the great game of 1966, played in front of 15,000 people at the Madejski stadium in Reading."

2006-05-02T20:29:00.000+10:00

Catastrophic

2006-04-30T08:22:00.000+10:00

Noooo... Rooney and Owen OUT.

Gurrh...

It'll be Crouch & Defoe up front then.

***UPDATE: OWEN 'NOT THAT BAD'***

****UPDATE: ALL SVEN'S REMAINING HAIR FALLS OUT****

2006-04-30T07:36:00.000+10:00

What about:

1) The beautiful game - don't f**k with it

2) Kick ball, score goal, don't call man names.

or,

3) Fair play? Raise the bar it makes the goal bigger.

Blue Peter

2006-04-27T18:41:00.000+10:00

"We want you to create a catchy slogan for the World Cup promoting fair play, equality and anti-racism, in no more than ten words."

Go on, do it. Then we can go to the World Cup.

Who will it be?

2006-04-25T02:30:00.000+10:00

Don't ask me. But if you do ask me, I voted for Martin O'Neill although I find myself strangely unconcerned really.

***UPDATE 270406: Looks like it's gonna be Big Phil. I'm not happy about it, but who asked me, eh? Nobody, that's who. ***

I just booked some days off for weekday afternoon matches. Should I take off Monday 12 June for the 2pm (Euro time) kick off between Australia and Japan?! How can I be expected to work when such a footballing clash is taking place?

***UPDATE 290406: Big Phil doesn't want the job after all***

2006-04-24T13:56:00.000+10:00

Who the bloody hell wrote that - Chris DeBurgh? I'm not sure if this mighty tournament should produce a song with the lyrics "You're the first in my life to make me think we might go all the way". I mean that's virtually pornographic.

Football songs should be all about pride and football and mud and stuff.

2006-04-21T20:39:00.000+10:00

Robot World Cup

2006-04-18T22:59:00.000+10:00

"A football tournament between teams of robots has been won by students from Plymouth University. ... The event was aimed at helping the students improve the skills of their robots ahead of the Robot World Cup in Germany in June."

2006-04-14T12:40:00.000+10:00

Just discovered this tremendous review of Euro'96 - the best football tournament ever (insert comment from Graham here on some other tournament that took place when I wasn't born which was much better).

http://tottenham.tripod.com/euro96.html

Querky, well written guff, the backbone of the Internet.

Sticky

2006-04-11T22:54:00.000+10:00

I suppose it's time I tracked down one of these.

You can get an exciting Australia wallpaper on their site too.

It gets worse

2006-04-11T20:32:00.000+10:00

So, Alex 'out of Blur' James and his tiresome Fat Les pals are rumoured to doing a World Cup song.

And now this...

"Punk singer Jimmy Pursey, formerly of Sham 69, is to record an alternative England World Cup song.

Hurry Up England, a reworking of his band's 1978 hit Hurry Up Harry, was chosen by Virgin Radio listeners as the station's rival to the official song."

Catflaps, indeed.

Anyway, do keep me informed about the Song for the Socceroos show.

Song For The Socceroos - TV Show

2006-04-10T20:56:00.000+10:00

	So they've got the entries in for the "Song for the Socceroos" now, and they've gone and tried a half-baked Eurovision song contest model to draw the winner. This unfunny bird in blue (left) introduces the artists...
	...then a panel of D-List celebrities hold up little football jumpers to cast their vote...
	...the least crap song then becomes the winner.
	This dude on a ukulele was by far the best. I'd love to see Australia being welcomed to the world stage by this serial killer with a mini guitar.

2006-04-09T22:08:00.000+10:00

That's England Alright

2006-04-05T23:17:00.000+10:00

Right, I promised not to pay too much attention to World Cup songs, but this cannot be ignored.

"Singer Joe Fagin has re-recorded his 1984 hit That's Livin' Alright as an alternative World Cup football anthem.

That's England Alright, a reworking of the theme tune to Auf Wiedersehen, Pet, will be released on 22 May.

"It's a song that captures the spirit of the true England fan - whether they are over in Germany, or watching it in the pub back home," said Fagin, 79."

No

NO.

NOOOOO!!!

I'm gonna support Togo.

2006-04-01T08:08:00.000+11:00

So apparently this giant footie was floating around on Darling Harbour last night. I was in Darling Harbour and didn't see the thing. Ok, so I was onto my 3rd Vodka and Red Bull by 7.30pm, and yes I suppose I did have 4 New's at lunch, but surely I couldn't have missed it.

Apparently it's called a "Goodwill" ball, but being Australia it's the "Hyundai" Goodwill Ball for the "Qantas" Socceroos. No shame.

2006-03-30T21:52:00.000+11:00

The only football related post I can make is that I am currently second in my football tipping game thing and on target to win 260 English pounds.

I will use the money to buy trousers.

2006-03-30T21:31:00.000+11:00

Mastercard are doing this promotion right, where they are giving away tickets to "every Australian game in the World Cup".

Poor buggers that win - they'll be on the first plane home after the opening round.

When Gary met Diego

2006-03-29T20:37:00.000+11:00

The BBC got some stick for paying Maradona for his part in an upcoming interview with Gary Lineker, (he cheated us, he's a drug user yeah yeah). There's a small picture gallery here - I can't wait to see the programme!

World Cupdate

2006-03-28T23:57:00.000+11:00

70 days till England play their first game.

Michael Owen's toe cause for concern.

Who will be the 4th striker? (I say, Defoe, or me.) Who should be the next England manager? (I say, Curbishley, or me again.)

Dull old Embrace to do official song. Expect something 'anthemic'. At least it won't be toe curling embarrassment, unless they get Sven in to do a rap.

Baddiel and Skinner to do WC 'podcasts'.

Please photograph any instances of World Cup fever striking Sydney.

Commonwealth Games News Report

2006-03-15T23:07:00.000+11:00

The Queen (God bless her) has declared the Commonwealth Games open in a glittering ceremony la la la... She received the Queen's baton... and sprinted up the steps with it... 71 competing nations... who knew there are 71 nations in the Commonwealth? [The Queen probably.] I doubt if I could come up with more than 10. Must be a lot of little islands and that.

I dunno, maybe Guernsey or something is counted as a nation.

Former Neighbours star Delta Goodrem sang 'Together We Are One', co-written with boyfriend and former Westlife singer Brian McFadden. Oh you lucky lucky people.

Dame Kiri Te Kanawa sang... Happy Birthday ... National Anthem yeah yeah... swagman... the Queen (Gawd bless her).

Missing ... Ian Thorpe ... Paula Radcliffe.

The ceremony began with the surreal sight of a winged tram landing in the centre of the Melbourne Cricket Ground... a picture please...

The Queen, dressed in gold ... gold! from head to toe like in the Kanye West song... and accompanied by the Duke of Edinburgh (God bless him, miserable old tosser)...

She watched as the ceremony continued with a boy being led on a magical adventure by a toy duck, featuring scenes evoking Australia's cultural heritage.

yeah... a magical adventure... a toy duck...

Anyway, Cathy Freeman, fireworks display ... 86 days to the World Cup...

Cheers, Trevor McDonald.

2006-02-27T18:59:00.000+11:00

From the SBS website:
We are hunting for a song to inspire the team to glory in their 2006 World Cup campaign. Imagine your song being sung by Aussies in soccer stadiums and homes across the country...

Yes, imagine.

They're going to let any old bastard record a crap footie anthem and then let the public vote on which one should be the official theme tune of the Australian football team. Surely this is pop suicide. We'll end up with a winner from someone in Brisbane singing "I don't even f***ing like soccer you long haired poofs."

I might download Ant & Dec's "We're on the Ball" now though - that was splendid.

http://www.sbs.com.au/asongforthesocceroos/

2006-02-24T11:06:00.000+11:00

No, you can't have a World Cup Hangover without getting drunk on the frothy beverage of watching Australia being stuffed by Brazil first.

I like the Panini stickers, go and buy some more.

We don't get them over here, and if we did they'd feature goofs from AFL like Big Bad Barry Hall or Goodsie from the Swannies.

I have no World Cup news. I think we kicked this blog off (geddit, kicked off, like a football) a few months too early.

Stealing Bob's blog is sounding more enticing by the minute.

England Superstar

2006-02-24T07:13:00.000+11:00

Cor, the Winter Olympics is dull.

I spotted some Panini stickers, so I bought 'em.

Don't let me buy any more.

They were really good , cos they've limited themslves to 150 players so you're bound to know most of the players you get, although it's always fun to pick out some unknowns from Ecuador or Japan.

Bob the blogger

2006-02-12T18:38:00.000+11:00

Bob is putting us to shame.

Not only does he have a photo gallery and a "top 5 WC2006" blog list, but he actually posts to his blog with some sort of regularity.

Well they do say if you can't beat them, join them. So I suggest we beat him, with a stick ... then steal his blog.

Ron Greenwood (1921-2006)

2006-02-10T08:55:00.000+11:00

We're on our way,
We are Ron's twenty-two
Hear the roar,
Of the red, white and blue

2006-02-09T20:59:00.000+11:00

I've just realised that Curd Plow is an anagram of World Cup. Plus, here are some anagrams of "World Cup Footie":

Poetic Dour Wolf

Woodcut Profile

Uproot cold wife

Twice proud fool

This information could well prove useful one day.

2006-01-29T15:03:00.000+11:00

Hmm, Croatia again eh?

This wasn't televised in Australia, which I am very upset about. I thoroughly enjoyed the spectacle of the World Cup Draw, with supermodels kicking footballs and crap German magicians so the least they could have done is show us this one.

Was it a spectacle for the eyes and ears? Were there laser beams and cannons of fire? Did Terry Wogan do the commentary?

2006-01-27T22:32:00.000+11:00

There are no easy games at this level.

Live: Euro 2008 qualifying draw

2006-01-27T22:20:00.000+11:00

Here we go, live from Zurich. Heidi Klum. Radio Five Live, the draw for the Euro 2008 isn't it. It's going to be in Austria and Switzerland which is nice for both of them. No sniggering about the Wankdorf Stadium please. Will we get the Group of Death? There's always a Group of Death. Who'll be manager when we start these quailfiers - will it be Big 'Sam' Allardyce. Or red-faced boring old Steve McLaren (please no). Perhaps Goose Hiddink, with his exemplary record. 'The first green ball is plucked from the pot... it's Kazakhstan!'

2006-01-19T13:31:00.000+11:00

Apparently the fake sheik was the one who foiled the Posh Spice kidnap as well.

2006-01-16T08:28:00.000+11:00

So. Sven spilled the beans to a News of the World scumbag dressed as an Arab. He's naive, he should have known better! The NOTW recorded it all! He said what we all kind of know and suspect, but it's very embarrassing and he's had to spend his Sunday ringing all the players and saying sorry. Sorry I said you're only at Newcastle for the money Michael. Sorry I said you come from a rough backgrond and you've got a bad temper Wayne. Sorry I said you're a bit lazy Rio. Sorry I said you're frustrated with Real Madrid's lack of progress David. Sorry everybody, I said I'll be leaving after the World Cup, I won't really!

On a brighter note, Arsenal have signed a Togoan. (Togolese?) He's from Togo anyway, and he's called Emmanuel Adebayor, and he's going to be in the World Cup, so that'll mean Togo games will be even more exciting (for me) than before. Togo v Switzerland in Dortmund on the 19th June... surely one to miss? No, two Arsenal players will be in it! Magic.

2006-01-13T12:17:00.000+11:00

Arthur on Acid, he say "Meoiw dude, I purrrdict that England will win innit."

The cat knows the truth ... and sleeps anywhere.

2006-01-11T15:38:00.000+11:00

Here are the two most valuable player cards for World Cup 2006.

I hear the Graham Silvestre one is worth literally tens of pence.

2006-01-11T08:21:00.000+11:00

Stiftung Warentest (apparently a consumer group in Germany, probably like "That's Life" with Esther Rantzen) have said that four of the WC2006 stadiums have "serious safefty problems".

The best thing about this story is the quote from Franz Beckenbauer who replied "The Stiftung Warentest might know what it's talking about with face creams, olive oil and vacuum cleaners, so it should stick to them. Frankly, I've had enough of these know-it-alls who are trying to make themselves important and profit from the World Cup".

More on the BBC website:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/4598964.stm

Fantasy Island

2006-01-05T14:30:00.000+11:00

Hey, so where do we play Fantasy World Cup this year then? Remember in Euro 2004 when we played that score predictor game on their website - that was excellent.

I need something to do after drinking 5 pints at 4 in the morning when the early games have finished, and an online score prediction type website would be perfect.

Publish some links Nobby, come on...

2006-01-04T10:20:00.000+11:00

Did you know that the Black Eyed Peas will be performing at the opening ceremony of the 2006 World Cup.

Hopefully they'll sing that "lovely lady lumps" record. I like that one.

Here is a picture of Fergie the lead singer dancer rapper from the Black Eyed Peas.

She has nothing to do with football, but appears on this blog nonetheless. I somehow don't think Mr Telepathy will mind.

Happy New One

2006-01-01T09:58:00.000+11:00

Happy New Year footy fans.

It's a World Cup Year. Here's to a great tournament and the occasional streaker.

2005-12-20T08:29:00.000+11:00

I see that Ronaldinho just got Fifa's player of the year for the second time running. Is that really fair. I mean think of all of those other players out there who could have done with a leg up (or a Beinschuss) at the end of the season.

To quote another famous Brazillian, "hello, uh hulloh, I am a goof, ha ha, hello!"*

*Note: this quote is not meant to offend Brazillians, but rather take the p**s out of Graham when he used to do Ronaldo impressions during the World Cup in 2002.