They lost! :(

KenUK

Still can't work out by 5th best (or is that 5th worst) South American team plays the WINNER of Oceania...

Having said that at least that's one damn sport you won't win next year:-)

It is part of the politics of soccer where the power base is in Europe and South America. Australia have always had to confront playing far more games to qualify for the World Cup. Add to this the obvious travelling distances involved. Each World Cup cmapaign has different requirements for us. One time we had to play Israel home and away after winning our our group and then some. Why play Israel? 'cos no-one else would! And Australia has no 'clout' in world soccer.

Recall the Olympic movement didn't really want Sydney to get to host the last Olympics. Samaranch wanted Beijing. Anyhow, I'm sure everyone was glad with how it turned out so well.

But this soccer thing is very hard to change.

Cheers,
Ozzie (of the get up early to watch 'em lose class)

jayhawk1

If you are talking about World Cup Soccer, I have a deal for you. On behalf of the United States of America, Australia can have our team. Rest assured, most of us are embarrassed we made the cut for the World Cup.

"Hand me that whiskey, I need to consult the spirit."-J.F. Rutherford

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ozziepost

Actually, Jayhawk, we're more than happy with the team we've got! But thanks for the offer. Most of our players play in Europe and in the British Premier League. For them it's a VERY tiring, no exhausting, campaign. They've flown from Europe to Oz. Trained and played in Oz, then hot-footed it over to South America. Tonite they fly back to Europe and straight into world-class club football. Glad they're young and fit, eh?

Cheers,
Ozzie

"It's better to light a candle than to curse the darkness."
Anonymous

KenUK

Ozzie,

That reminded me - think you also played Scotland in a play off once too.

Still unusual though when you bear in mind all other continents are represented (the WORLD cup). One representative from Oceania would seem at lease logical when you see the quality of the representation of the African and Asian teams (before anyone shouts not all of them are poor football teams!!). They'd certainly give a few teams a run for their money.

Anyway - too many unconverted chances in Melbourne caused the damage before this evening.

Ken

(Who was able to watch both games at civilised hours!)

jayhawk1

Ozzie,
No doubt Australia has a tough road to hoe. So please accept our best players in trade for Australia's worst players. The U.S.A deserves to be knocked out early. Please help us with our goal!

"Hand me that whiskey, I need to consult the spirit."-J.F. Rutherford

Jeremy's Hate Mail Hall Of Fame.
http://hometown.aol.com/onjehovahside/ and [email protected]