Friday was the penultimate day for the team at HQ Durban, so the obligatory last minute shopping and to do’s would commence. Mark and Janet ventured off to the shopping centre to fight the hoards of people, whilst Kim and I managed spend a few hours with our new mate Sifiso (Simon). Sifiso is from Johannesburg and travels to Durban regularly as his grandmother lives approximately 30 mins out of town. For the World Cup it was an opportunity to spend time in Durban and obtain regular work to increase his savings for his further education.
We were lucky enough to meet Simon a few days in to our trip at HQ, working on one of the outlets in food alley. His tom foolery attracted our attention and from that day forth a new friendship was fostered. We are not even sure of how old Sifiso is, but an educated guess would tell us he is in his early 20’s. After giving us an education in Zulu and South African, and also telling us the places to visit, we thought it best to repay his kindness with a quiet drink and a meal at one of the local establishments.
Now on our walk down to the beachside, it was then we discovered that whilst he knew where we should go, he had never once ever visited any of these establishments. As a result and with no hesitation, we thought it best that our new friend be treated to a morning at the Ushaka Marine World. The delight on his face whilst visiting the animal enclosures and water slide areas was truly priceless. Our warm hearted new friend was full of knowledge and wisdom, but on the inside he had always known that with money at a premium, he would never probably ever get to see the things he knew so much about.
From Ushaka we ventured down towards the live site where Sifiso was to work for a half days pay from 1pm to 9pm. On the walk down we presented him with a new Australian jersey as an appreciation of his kindness during our stay. It was at this point I think he had decided that he didn’t want to work any longer that day, but we encouraged him to do so and promised that we could meet him again the next day. So with a smile on his face, and a strut of excitement Sifiso trundled off yelling across the parade that he was now a very proud Australian.
This afternoon saw a procession of Portuguese and Brazilian fans flock through the city down to Moses Mobheda stadium. The tickets were at a premium for this game and the hottest of the World Cup to date. Unfortunately for the 4 of us we missed the opportunity to purchase 6 tickets for the match earlier on the tour. Fortunately though we didn’t have to pay the $100 dollars for each ticket to view what in the end turned out to be somewhat of a fizzer. Interestingly enough though, the price of tickets now via personal sales had started to become...well simply ridiculous. There were individual tickets for the game being held for AU$500, even though they were category 3 and as far away as you could possibly be from the playing surface without actually sitting in front of the tv. I have even seen a ticket for the England and Germany game advertised at AU$800.
After the match we headed up to one of the local upmarket areas of Florida rd. Florida rd boasts not only great shopping but a plethora of restaurants and food outlets. With the requirement to meet with 3 other friends, and the absolute necessity to view this evening’s match between Spain and Chile, we walked the hill to find an establishment with all of our requirements. And there it was, the final selection of a Greek restaurant that was all bar empty. Perfect....right in front of the tv and a premium service due to no customers.....incorrect assumption number 402.
Over the next half an hour, the steady flow of fellow hungry soccer starved fans increased to the point where there was simply no longer any space for people to fit. We would be fine though of course as the entrees had been ordered and not long served. The mood was also heightened by the fact that the drinks were cold and the group of 7 enormously impressed by the waiter’s ability to digest our mains order without the use of a paper or pen. That was until 1 hour later.
So the game now kicks off and the atmosphere within the confines of the walls was absolutely fantastic. In fact the whole surroundings resembled what could have been seen as some sort of joke...there were 20 Brazilians, 8 Australians, 10 Portuguese and 3 Argentineans all sitting in a restaurant......unfortunately though this was no joke. A part of the way through the first half of the match, the waiter returns to advise that he is sorry for the wait and that they were under staffed and will get the meals out as soon as they could.....that was until he then returned for a second time some 15 mins later and advised that the computer system had crashed and they were not 100 percent sure of the order of which we had placed. In all honesty, the delay was seen to be coming from miles away and the waiter in actually fact was killing it with regards to trying to make all members of the establishment content.
Eventually after 4 of us had completed our mains, the final 3 meals were presented and the hungry mob was now pleased...well at most. To declare the meals as authentic Greek may have been a little exaggeration of the truth, but all in all they were technically Greek and we thoroughly enjoyed every minute of our time at Durban’s only Greek comedy restaurant!
26 June 2010
25 June 2010
Wipers!
After a few days of what feels like we just shot the remaking of Around the World in 80 days, finally we have the chance to sit back and relax high in the great western stand of Kingsmead cricket stadium and reflect on our daily adventures....and adventures it has all been.
Tuesday this week saw the team take an “official” tour of the city of Durban. A short walk down to the beach side tourism and information area saw us board the open top double decker bus for a guided information session on this great city. Hind sight now tells us that the tour would have been of great benefit at the beginning of our stay in Durban, highlighting to us some of Durban’s great markets and restaurants just to name a few. The guides constant references to the “robot” became both amusing and confusing, only to discover that a “robot” was actually what they call the traffic lights throughout the city. We maybe could have done with some of those robots to assist the guide, as the broken record of “great services to the public” and “exotic trees” became a little annoying some 2 hours into the trip....oh and by the way, Durban has scattered throughout it the most amazing “Veranda” buildings. A “veranda” building is a building that has a balcony attached, and the balcony goes all the way around the building!
Seriously though, the tour was well worth the 3 hours and actually was very informative in parts about the history of the city. Not only did it point out to us the great places to visit, but it also probably reiterated the places not to go without the safety of the confines of the bus, which also would have been handy before both our local friend Tonia and the tour had indicated so. You see one of these areas the 6 of us had already hiked through. And when I say through, I mean right smack bang through the centre of it. At the time, you did get the feeling of "why are we here", although a rather condensed population and the odd chant of “aussie” filled you with some form of comfort. You know come to think of it, when that police officer shook her finger at me from side to side, I now know what it meant.
So off to the live site on this afternoon, to watch the Bafana Bafana take on the might of the French. The 2006 runners up were in jeopardy of being eliminated from the tournament and the South African’s could still also mathematically make it. There was dance and euphoria when the Bafana took a 2-0 lead, however reality came crashing down with the French narrowing the lead to 1, and removing the hopes of the nation along with it. They did however play very well and created the ultimate shock to all with France being sent home early.
Tonight gave us the chance to sit at the Big Bosnich Bar and take in a descent and somewhat welcomed meal of Italian. The lips watered at the thought of partaking in a nice takeaway bolognaise. First the garlic bread, a delectable looking treat in the shape of a pizza....beautiful in taste, if you are a garlic fan. I have never ever in my life seen anyone manage to fit 373 cloves of garlic on one 20 cm pizza base. Believe me though, it still managed to disappear.....just like the mouth watering. After eyeing off the bolognaise for a matter of seconds, it was time for Mark and myself to partake in some pasta. And we did, with mouths open wide and the thrill of a meal of pasta, the biggest fork load of spaghetti was thrust deep into the mouth of what would appear to be two malnutritioned Australians. And that’s where the mouth watering stopped. The taste was absolutely divine, but wait...is that chilli we can taste? Chilli.....along with the 373 garlic cloves, I am of the belief there may well have been some 300 odd chillies cooked throughout the bolognaise. At this point, the Mark Bosnich Big Bar was being prepared to be renamed as the Mark Bosnich Big dam. Towels were gathered at a rate of knots to remove the constant flow of water, now not of the mouth, but every other pore from the human body. I can tell you though the pain was endured through to the end of the dish, however it is safe to say that if pasta is to be ordered once again it will not be from the same establishment.....the Indian gentlemen delivering the purchase should have probably given something away? Wipers!
In the small hours of the next morning, it was time to depart for Nelspruit, the home of the next Australian game. Today the convoy of 23 buses took a detour through the mountains for a scenic view of the country of Africa. It was at times breathtaking, and once again humbling as small towns line the streets just to wave and smile at the congo line of Australian vehicles. The morning stop today brought is to a local high school in the northern provinces of South Africa, whom presented us with a breakfast pack and warm log fires to escape the -1 temperatures outside. Again, they were so happy to have had the Australians select them as a place to visit, and the local students mingled together to assist in an way they possibly could to ensure our stop was of the upmost warmth and enjoyment.
Driver....Nelspruit please! Just after lunch today the fanatics arrived at the Nelspruit Botanical Gardens. The fanatics management team had organised with the local council the opportunity to utilise their fine gardens as a pre game venue to eat and drink the afternoon away. With the installation of pay tv and tv screens to the gardens, the fanatics sat in preparation watching the fate of the underwhelming English. Fortunately for their players, England managed to scrape their way through, however I suspect there may well be some rioting on the streets of the U.K later in the week as the U.S managed to top the group and relegate England to a confrontation in the first knock out stage with Germany.
Now back to our beloved aussies...there was a buzz through the air tonight that something special may occur and the Socceroos would progress. The atmosphere was phenomenal tonight and the sea of green and gold throughout the stadium was a sight to be seen. The pride of the nation was evident during the national anthem, as even the vuvuzelas were not going to drown out this one song. Together we stood, scarves swinging through the air, willing the lads to one last gasp effort. The performance they gave was very satisfying and one that we were all well proud about. Not a green and gold shirt moved after the final whistle, and we applauded the roos as they paraded the 2010 world cup for one last hurrah. It was disappointing for all, but the last two performances told us that we deserved to stand aside the best on the world stage.
The bus tonight was actually one of heightened mood, even though our team had not progressed. And it was lucky it was....12 hours until we get back to HQ. Just what everyone was looking forward to....NOT! In fact, there were two of our bus 14 combatants who had decided after countless hours on buses gallivanting around this great land, it was well worth the 7000 Rand ($1000) to get a plane ticket back to Durban. Madness or good application of rationale? More than likely an inkling of both.
After arrival back to HQ at lunch time on Thursday, the 4 of us decide it is time for refreshing. No better way than to head down to Ushaka Marine World to take on the slides and pools. After the purchase of bathers from the local merchandise store, off to the slides we would head. Ushaka hosts the steepest and biggest waterslide of the southern hemisphere, so off we trundle to conquer the beast. Mark and Kim managed to head straight to the larger, whilst yours truly would build up gradually from the second biggest...it was then after managing to manipulate my shorts into a toothpick, I realised that there was more than likely no requirement to attempt to have my insides turned out by the gargantuan. Seeing Kim’s successful attempt to become a contortionist was satisfying enough for me.
A few quiet beverages then saw us take in the Italy game. Again the potential loomed for another “big” team to pack up early and leave the tournament. There were thousands of aussies around town that would love nothing more than the Italians and 2006 victors to have their campaign taking away from them....and they did! No one would have seen coming a 4th placed finish for the cup holders, nor would have anyone thought in their wildest dreams that New Zealand would place above them. Our fellow Anzacs will be very proud of their efforts in 3 draws and remaining undefeated on the biggest stage of world football.
Tuesday this week saw the team take an “official” tour of the city of Durban. A short walk down to the beach side tourism and information area saw us board the open top double decker bus for a guided information session on this great city. Hind sight now tells us that the tour would have been of great benefit at the beginning of our stay in Durban, highlighting to us some of Durban’s great markets and restaurants just to name a few. The guides constant references to the “robot” became both amusing and confusing, only to discover that a “robot” was actually what they call the traffic lights throughout the city. We maybe could have done with some of those robots to assist the guide, as the broken record of “great services to the public” and “exotic trees” became a little annoying some 2 hours into the trip....oh and by the way, Durban has scattered throughout it the most amazing “Veranda” buildings. A “veranda” building is a building that has a balcony attached, and the balcony goes all the way around the building!
Seriously though, the tour was well worth the 3 hours and actually was very informative in parts about the history of the city. Not only did it point out to us the great places to visit, but it also probably reiterated the places not to go without the safety of the confines of the bus, which also would have been handy before both our local friend Tonia and the tour had indicated so. You see one of these areas the 6 of us had already hiked through. And when I say through, I mean right smack bang through the centre of it. At the time, you did get the feeling of "why are we here", although a rather condensed population and the odd chant of “aussie” filled you with some form of comfort. You know come to think of it, when that police officer shook her finger at me from side to side, I now know what it meant.
So off to the live site on this afternoon, to watch the Bafana Bafana take on the might of the French. The 2006 runners up were in jeopardy of being eliminated from the tournament and the South African’s could still also mathematically make it. There was dance and euphoria when the Bafana took a 2-0 lead, however reality came crashing down with the French narrowing the lead to 1, and removing the hopes of the nation along with it. They did however play very well and created the ultimate shock to all with France being sent home early.
Tonight gave us the chance to sit at the Big Bosnich Bar and take in a descent and somewhat welcomed meal of Italian. The lips watered at the thought of partaking in a nice takeaway bolognaise. First the garlic bread, a delectable looking treat in the shape of a pizza....beautiful in taste, if you are a garlic fan. I have never ever in my life seen anyone manage to fit 373 cloves of garlic on one 20 cm pizza base. Believe me though, it still managed to disappear.....just like the mouth watering. After eyeing off the bolognaise for a matter of seconds, it was time for Mark and myself to partake in some pasta. And we did, with mouths open wide and the thrill of a meal of pasta, the biggest fork load of spaghetti was thrust deep into the mouth of what would appear to be two malnutritioned Australians. And that’s where the mouth watering stopped. The taste was absolutely divine, but wait...is that chilli we can taste? Chilli.....along with the 373 garlic cloves, I am of the belief there may well have been some 300 odd chillies cooked throughout the bolognaise. At this point, the Mark Bosnich Big Bar was being prepared to be renamed as the Mark Bosnich Big dam. Towels were gathered at a rate of knots to remove the constant flow of water, now not of the mouth, but every other pore from the human body. I can tell you though the pain was endured through to the end of the dish, however it is safe to say that if pasta is to be ordered once again it will not be from the same establishment.....the Indian gentlemen delivering the purchase should have probably given something away? Wipers!
In the small hours of the next morning, it was time to depart for Nelspruit, the home of the next Australian game. Today the convoy of 23 buses took a detour through the mountains for a scenic view of the country of Africa. It was at times breathtaking, and once again humbling as small towns line the streets just to wave and smile at the congo line of Australian vehicles. The morning stop today brought is to a local high school in the northern provinces of South Africa, whom presented us with a breakfast pack and warm log fires to escape the -1 temperatures outside. Again, they were so happy to have had the Australians select them as a place to visit, and the local students mingled together to assist in an way they possibly could to ensure our stop was of the upmost warmth and enjoyment.
Driver....Nelspruit please! Just after lunch today the fanatics arrived at the Nelspruit Botanical Gardens. The fanatics management team had organised with the local council the opportunity to utilise their fine gardens as a pre game venue to eat and drink the afternoon away. With the installation of pay tv and tv screens to the gardens, the fanatics sat in preparation watching the fate of the underwhelming English. Fortunately for their players, England managed to scrape their way through, however I suspect there may well be some rioting on the streets of the U.K later in the week as the U.S managed to top the group and relegate England to a confrontation in the first knock out stage with Germany.
Now back to our beloved aussies...there was a buzz through the air tonight that something special may occur and the Socceroos would progress. The atmosphere was phenomenal tonight and the sea of green and gold throughout the stadium was a sight to be seen. The pride of the nation was evident during the national anthem, as even the vuvuzelas were not going to drown out this one song. Together we stood, scarves swinging through the air, willing the lads to one last gasp effort. The performance they gave was very satisfying and one that we were all well proud about. Not a green and gold shirt moved after the final whistle, and we applauded the roos as they paraded the 2010 world cup for one last hurrah. It was disappointing for all, but the last two performances told us that we deserved to stand aside the best on the world stage.
The bus tonight was actually one of heightened mood, even though our team had not progressed. And it was lucky it was....12 hours until we get back to HQ. Just what everyone was looking forward to....NOT! In fact, there were two of our bus 14 combatants who had decided after countless hours on buses gallivanting around this great land, it was well worth the 7000 Rand ($1000) to get a plane ticket back to Durban. Madness or good application of rationale? More than likely an inkling of both.
After arrival back to HQ at lunch time on Thursday, the 4 of us decide it is time for refreshing. No better way than to head down to Ushaka Marine World to take on the slides and pools. After the purchase of bathers from the local merchandise store, off to the slides we would head. Ushaka hosts the steepest and biggest waterslide of the southern hemisphere, so off we trundle to conquer the beast. Mark and Kim managed to head straight to the larger, whilst yours truly would build up gradually from the second biggest...it was then after managing to manipulate my shorts into a toothpick, I realised that there was more than likely no requirement to attempt to have my insides turned out by the gargantuan. Seeing Kim’s successful attempt to become a contortionist was satisfying enough for me.
A few quiet beverages then saw us take in the Italy game. Again the potential loomed for another “big” team to pack up early and leave the tournament. There were thousands of aussies around town that would love nothing more than the Italians and 2006 victors to have their campaign taking away from them....and they did! No one would have seen coming a 4th placed finish for the cup holders, nor would have anyone thought in their wildest dreams that New Zealand would place above them. Our fellow Anzacs will be very proud of their efforts in 3 draws and remaining undefeated on the biggest stage of world football.
22 June 2010
Let's go shopping!......again
Monday was left for parties to decide their own pathway of excitement...for a group of 3 men and 3 women with no pre organised football game, no organised activity and little ability to make a decision, that only meant one thing.......shopping! Did I say excitement? But wait, all was not lost...
Our new friend Tonia from the Mark Bosnich big bar advised us over the weekend that this was the place to go. Shopping for the ladies, a pub of which brews its own beer for the men and of course the kids would enjoy themselves because that’s the main thing. As it turns out...the plan worked.
Come lunchtime tour members would require a level of nutrition to keep them healthy and strong. For the boys, such replenishment meant an opportunity to view the Portugal v North Korea match. If the government in Korea were hesitant in showing their first game live, I should imagine that there was no way on earth that this 7-0 drubbing would make it to the media. Portugal put on a goal scoring clinic like no other in the tournament and marked the Portuguese intentions to go far beyond the group stages.
This evening the Mark Bosnich bar welcomed the new panel of Stan Lazaridis, Frank Arok and Irish Dave. Sadly for the panel, and thanks once again to Jack D, Mark, our new mate Brian (who incidentally also has a wife named Brian...think about it) and myself had managed to somehow create our own panel and recreate the sporting landscape as we know it. It appeared that the naming of ladies night tonight, with few to no ladies attending, meant to us we should step in and ensure that the party was kept alive. It was....we weren’t.
The journey back to the tent at 12.30am I am fairly positive became the length of a marathon. Why was it now that we decided it was time to check out who played for the teams in the photos of which are scattered throughout the depths of the stands?....this is a test match stadium, do you know how many photos of cricket teams there are in these places? Any logical thought process had by this time passed, and it would be interesting to know how many times Shaun Pollock’s name was mentioned within the next half hour period. No matter how clearly painfully obvious it was that Shaun had played both for the local dolphins team and of course the national side, for some reason it appeared a necessity to find every single picture with him in it.
From there it was decided that an intake of food may be a positive, but not realising the time, reality was met with a painful groan as it dawned that the food alley was closed. Being honest, this was probably a good thing. The regular meals of Bunny Chow were starting to take their toll. I must admit though, they are quite scrumptious for a half loaf of bread hollowed out and filled with a spicy casserole of sorts.....and irrespective of popular beliefs, it is actually chicken and beef, not bunny!
Our new friend Tonia from the Mark Bosnich big bar advised us over the weekend that this was the place to go. Shopping for the ladies, a pub of which brews its own beer for the men and of course the kids would enjoy themselves because that’s the main thing. As it turns out...the plan worked.
Come lunchtime tour members would require a level of nutrition to keep them healthy and strong. For the boys, such replenishment meant an opportunity to view the Portugal v North Korea match. If the government in Korea were hesitant in showing their first game live, I should imagine that there was no way on earth that this 7-0 drubbing would make it to the media. Portugal put on a goal scoring clinic like no other in the tournament and marked the Portuguese intentions to go far beyond the group stages.
This evening the Mark Bosnich bar welcomed the new panel of Stan Lazaridis, Frank Arok and Irish Dave. Sadly for the panel, and thanks once again to Jack D, Mark, our new mate Brian (who incidentally also has a wife named Brian...think about it) and myself had managed to somehow create our own panel and recreate the sporting landscape as we know it. It appeared that the naming of ladies night tonight, with few to no ladies attending, meant to us we should step in and ensure that the party was kept alive. It was....we weren’t.
The journey back to the tent at 12.30am I am fairly positive became the length of a marathon. Why was it now that we decided it was time to check out who played for the teams in the photos of which are scattered throughout the depths of the stands?....this is a test match stadium, do you know how many photos of cricket teams there are in these places? Any logical thought process had by this time passed, and it would be interesting to know how many times Shaun Pollock’s name was mentioned within the next half hour period. No matter how clearly painfully obvious it was that Shaun had played both for the local dolphins team and of course the national side, for some reason it appeared a necessity to find every single picture with him in it.
From there it was decided that an intake of food may be a positive, but not realising the time, reality was met with a painful groan as it dawned that the food alley was closed. Being honest, this was probably a good thing. The regular meals of Bunny Chow were starting to take their toll. I must admit though, they are quite scrumptious for a half loaf of bread hollowed out and filled with a spicy casserole of sorts.....and irrespective of popular beliefs, it is actually chicken and beef, not bunny!
21 June 2010
High Rollers!
With a 5.30am arrival back to HQ from Rustenburg, Monday was set aside for rest and relaxation to catch up the sleep that some may not have had riding on a bus for some 10 hours. Thankfully we were not on one of the party buses who didn’t manage to arrive back until approx 8 or 9am because of the regular requirements of individuals to do one of two things.....I am sure you can imagine what they are.
So off to bed we all headed in the hope of even just a few hours of quality rest, and I don’t think it was a problem for anyone. Fortunately for the fanatics, Mrs Nature provided us with a complimentary sauna this morning at HQ Durban, whether you really wanted one or not, so it was about between 8.30 and 9 am that we decided that we should actually remove ourselves from our tents before we became the latest victims of heat exhaustion. For those looking to lose a few pounds they had gained from the trip it was more than likely ideal!
Once the obligatory morning functions of blogging, uploading photos and skeet shooting the breakfast toast were completed, the group decided to head off shopping. Luckily for the lads however, (Tonia we love you) one of the bar waitresses advised that the shopping centre we were choosing to visit was not an ideal destination on a Sunday and that there was a better one to visit the next day...you know what this meant. Let’s all stay at the Mark Bosnich big bar and watch football over a drink or three! Three cheers for Tonia...hip hip....
It was an ideal afternoon anyway as our good neighbours New Zealand were playing the team aussies now all love to hate, those pizza loving Italians. For just a few hours, a few hundred aussies pretended we were still in the 70’s and became a kiwi for the afternoon. And boy did we know how they were feeling! I, along with many others am becoming frequently frustrated with referees influencing games with poor decisions. All credit must go to NZ for the 1-1 draw, and in all honestly the penalty once again was never a penalty and so our fellow ditch diggers should have come away with the upset of the tournament. Never mind they are still in with a sniff.
Tonight the four of us headed off to the Casino for a delectable meal at the Cape Town Fish Market. Between us there was a succulent selection of seafood treats and for the sake of wanting to try crayfish for the first time, I was left with no choice but to have the upgraded platter for two. Luckily the platters were not in fact that large and the task to devour was somewhat easy. The desserts in a lot ways however stole the show...they were the most delightful chocolate fudge brownies I have ever eaten, and I can’t wait for breakfast to head back and have some more....and lunch...and dinner.
Finally, being at the casino we had to do as the Romans and indulge for half an hour on the roulette wheel. So indulge we did, and the casino obliged in relieving us of all our monies...why didn’t I just play the pokies? Upon losing a couple of hundred Rand ($30ish haha), yours truly had decided that the final 20 rand note would be thrust upon the nearest pokie machine. 20 rand, 5 credits, 100 lines. Simple really, one bet was all it took. Up presented the 3 treasure chests and zippyadeedoodah....I’ll collect thanks. 1580 rand or approx $250! I got you Mr Casino....just for today at least. Roll out the brownies!
So off to bed we all headed in the hope of even just a few hours of quality rest, and I don’t think it was a problem for anyone. Fortunately for the fanatics, Mrs Nature provided us with a complimentary sauna this morning at HQ Durban, whether you really wanted one or not, so it was about between 8.30 and 9 am that we decided that we should actually remove ourselves from our tents before we became the latest victims of heat exhaustion. For those looking to lose a few pounds they had gained from the trip it was more than likely ideal!
Once the obligatory morning functions of blogging, uploading photos and skeet shooting the breakfast toast were completed, the group decided to head off shopping. Luckily for the lads however, (Tonia we love you) one of the bar waitresses advised that the shopping centre we were choosing to visit was not an ideal destination on a Sunday and that there was a better one to visit the next day...you know what this meant. Let’s all stay at the Mark Bosnich big bar and watch football over a drink or three! Three cheers for Tonia...hip hip....
It was an ideal afternoon anyway as our good neighbours New Zealand were playing the team aussies now all love to hate, those pizza loving Italians. For just a few hours, a few hundred aussies pretended we were still in the 70’s and became a kiwi for the afternoon. And boy did we know how they were feeling! I, along with many others am becoming frequently frustrated with referees influencing games with poor decisions. All credit must go to NZ for the 1-1 draw, and in all honestly the penalty once again was never a penalty and so our fellow ditch diggers should have come away with the upset of the tournament. Never mind they are still in with a sniff.
Tonight the four of us headed off to the Casino for a delectable meal at the Cape Town Fish Market. Between us there was a succulent selection of seafood treats and for the sake of wanting to try crayfish for the first time, I was left with no choice but to have the upgraded platter for two. Luckily the platters were not in fact that large and the task to devour was somewhat easy. The desserts in a lot ways however stole the show...they were the most delightful chocolate fudge brownies I have ever eaten, and I can’t wait for breakfast to head back and have some more....and lunch...and dinner.
Finally, being at the casino we had to do as the Romans and indulge for half an hour on the roulette wheel. So indulge we did, and the casino obliged in relieving us of all our monies...why didn’t I just play the pokies? Upon losing a couple of hundred Rand ($30ish haha), yours truly had decided that the final 20 rand note would be thrust upon the nearest pokie machine. 20 rand, 5 credits, 100 lines. Simple really, one bet was all it took. Up presented the 3 treasure chests and zippyadeedoodah....I’ll collect thanks. 1580 rand or approx $250! I got you Mr Casino....just for today at least. Roll out the brownies!
20 June 2010
Someone get me off this roundabout!
And off to Rustenburg we travelled. Some 1200 Australian fanatics loaded on to 20 buses departing HQ Durban at 23:00 hrs. I am not sure there were many looking forward to the long trek across Africa, but it was all worth it to watch Australia once again play on the world stage. I have to be honest, the amount of travel across this great nation we have done, I thought would warrant a place in the history books alongside Captain Cook...ok well maybe Burke and Wills?
It was a relatively restless night for most with the tossing and turning in the attempt to find the most comfortable position in your seat as you possibly could. Our party appeared to get a reasonable amount of shuteye, apart from Mark who has now apparently claimed the world record most amount of sleep by one individual on any bus ride from HQ Durban to Sun City....and Sun City would be the next stop on our wonderful journey.
Sun City is a famous resort in the North of South Africa. It boasts a Wave Pool and swimming complex, a Casino, Hotels, Kids water lagoon and two championship golf courses. For the golf enthusiasts, Sun City is the home to the Nedbank Challenge which is held in November of each year. The Tournament is an invitational only event where only 12 of the world’s top golfers are invited to attend and play off for the $4.3 million in prize money. The current holder of the trophy happens to be one of our own in Robert Allenby.
Sun City also presented the group and with the chance to experience some differing foods options and relax in the luxurious surroundings of the casino. We managed to discover a great little cafe where the group could indulge in a delightful coffee. But it was nearly lunch time so it was not difficult to persuade 3 of us to partake in the obligatory JD with our lunches. Speaking of which, I never in my wildest dreams thought a toasted sandwich would go down such a treat. That mince and Gouda sandwich was one of the most delectable meals I have ever eaten. That’s probably unfair to the local cuisine, as all in all it actually hasn’t been that bad, however the fanatics exposure to food convenience has seen a regular and consistent diet of Bunny chow, Borwoers and Roti’s.
And then it was time....a 1 hour trip saw the convoy arrive in Rustenburg. The most amusing point of the day was on the way through the main roundabout to town. For some unknown reason, the security at the turn off of which our buses were supposed to take, would not allow us to proceed to where we needed to go. Arguments between traffic police and fanatics officials saw the constant recurrence of buses moved on from the exit, only to see them all perform a circle of the roundabout eventually filling the circular road with approximately 10 buses and the point of no return for the security and the only reasonable solution of allowing us to pass. Of course, as the buses were allowed to progress, you can imagine the numbers of songs that were sung for the security and the amount of fingers presented in appreciation for their sincere understanding.
As we pulled in to Rustenburg, it was hard to believe that we were about to enter a facility of which was hosting a Fifa World Cup game. The Rustenburg stadium stands amidst a sea of dirt and barren country with a few small townships surrounding it. To describe to our Brisbane friends, it would be like driving in out to Gatton to watch an ashes test match in a world class facility. (of course no offence intended to our Gatton friends). It was quite a strange feeling, and if it wasn’t for the flow of green and gold you wouldn’t have believed you were at the world cup.
Sadly once again the result was not ideal, and sadly for mine another game has been influenced by a referee’s contentious decision. In my humble belief it was a penalty however we should never have been left to play with 10 men on the park. Mark Shield, you should have never retired as an international referee...you would have gone a long way in this tournament! Decisions aside, I thought the intent of which Australia played in the second half was a credit to them, and having a go was what all of us wanted to see in true Australian spirit. In would have been boosting for the aussie lads to see Ghana continually shoot from long range, and for us in the crowd, we could feel that chances for us were going to come. I actually thought that Mr Verbeek’s substitutions were good and both Chipperfield and God both influenced the game when they came on......unfortunately 1-1 would be the final standing.
It was a relatively restless night for most with the tossing and turning in the attempt to find the most comfortable position in your seat as you possibly could. Our party appeared to get a reasonable amount of shuteye, apart from Mark who has now apparently claimed the world record most amount of sleep by one individual on any bus ride from HQ Durban to Sun City....and Sun City would be the next stop on our wonderful journey.
Sun City is a famous resort in the North of South Africa. It boasts a Wave Pool and swimming complex, a Casino, Hotels, Kids water lagoon and two championship golf courses. For the golf enthusiasts, Sun City is the home to the Nedbank Challenge which is held in November of each year. The Tournament is an invitational only event where only 12 of the world’s top golfers are invited to attend and play off for the $4.3 million in prize money. The current holder of the trophy happens to be one of our own in Robert Allenby.
Sun City also presented the group and with the chance to experience some differing foods options and relax in the luxurious surroundings of the casino. We managed to discover a great little cafe where the group could indulge in a delightful coffee. But it was nearly lunch time so it was not difficult to persuade 3 of us to partake in the obligatory JD with our lunches. Speaking of which, I never in my wildest dreams thought a toasted sandwich would go down such a treat. That mince and Gouda sandwich was one of the most delectable meals I have ever eaten. That’s probably unfair to the local cuisine, as all in all it actually hasn’t been that bad, however the fanatics exposure to food convenience has seen a regular and consistent diet of Bunny chow, Borwoers and Roti’s.
And then it was time....a 1 hour trip saw the convoy arrive in Rustenburg. The most amusing point of the day was on the way through the main roundabout to town. For some unknown reason, the security at the turn off of which our buses were supposed to take, would not allow us to proceed to where we needed to go. Arguments between traffic police and fanatics officials saw the constant recurrence of buses moved on from the exit, only to see them all perform a circle of the roundabout eventually filling the circular road with approximately 10 buses and the point of no return for the security and the only reasonable solution of allowing us to pass. Of course, as the buses were allowed to progress, you can imagine the numbers of songs that were sung for the security and the amount of fingers presented in appreciation for their sincere understanding.
As we pulled in to Rustenburg, it was hard to believe that we were about to enter a facility of which was hosting a Fifa World Cup game. The Rustenburg stadium stands amidst a sea of dirt and barren country with a few small townships surrounding it. To describe to our Brisbane friends, it would be like driving in out to Gatton to watch an ashes test match in a world class facility. (of course no offence intended to our Gatton friends). It was quite a strange feeling, and if it wasn’t for the flow of green and gold you wouldn’t have believed you were at the world cup.
Sadly once again the result was not ideal, and sadly for mine another game has been influenced by a referee’s contentious decision. In my humble belief it was a penalty however we should never have been left to play with 10 men on the park. Mark Shield, you should have never retired as an international referee...you would have gone a long way in this tournament! Decisions aside, I thought the intent of which Australia played in the second half was a credit to them, and having a go was what all of us wanted to see in true Australian spirit. In would have been boosting for the aussie lads to see Ghana continually shoot from long range, and for us in the crowd, we could feel that chances for us were going to come. I actually thought that Mr Verbeek’s substitutions were good and both Chipperfield and God both influenced the game when they came on......unfortunately 1-1 would be the final standing.
19 June 2010
Hiho, Hiho, off to Rustenburg we go.....
After rocking the night away on Wednesday night to Fatboy Slim, the fanatics camp was a very sombre and relaxed place to be the next day. I suspect a few sore heads assisting in at least one night of nil Vuvuzela blowing through to the wee hours of the morn. It was really the first morning of sleep catch up for the 4 of us, with a sleep in until, wait for it......9 o’clock!
The fanatic’s management team had the afternoon planned for a fluorescent party at the local famous establishment of Joe Cools. So with yellow cricket pants in tow, (ok, they were in our bags just in case) off we trundled to the beach side for a good hearty meal before the mass took to an afternoon of partying. Unfortunately for Durban and the fanatics, the weather gods were not kind, and the rooftop party quickly became a pool side retreat of torrential rain. Never mind....there was football to be watched, so watch football we would do.
This evening was back at HQ for another exciting episode of the panel. Tonight was all about the aussies and which way we would or could go to commence our climb to the top of the group. Teams were named, ideas were presented and opinions were forwarded. I believe we have it, stop the press....the fanatics found all the requirements to essentially hand Australia a pathway to the final. Amazing what truck load of Australians and a shipment of castle lager can achieve. The night was completed with another game of football and the next big shock of the world cup. Or was it? It appears that the 2006 runners up may now be now be destined for an early holiday after a 2-0 loss to the Mexicans. It surprised most how poorly the French performed, but it just goes to show that when you are on the biggest stage, you have to be at your best.
Today was an early morning rise, with the tour party and our newly made friends from Bunbury (Thelma and Louise....or was that Brian?) heading of the local attraction of Ushaka Marine World. Ushaka is made up of two worlds which essentially make up what is similar to Sea World and Wet and Wild back at home. From the dolphins to seals....stingrays to sharks, it was a pleasant change of scenery from the gorillas and wild boars of the fanatics HQ. (just kidding guys). Lunch at Ushaka gave us the chance to sit and relax and support out German friends to victory over Serbia....incorrect assumption number 376. Serbia was to set the next biggest shock of the world cup with a 1-0 win. I am not sure how much worse it can really get for our green and gold combatants, however reality is we need to win games to progress and there is no time like the present.
So now the party is showered and prepared for a 36 hour round trip to Rustenburg, where I am hoping everyone will be in fine voice to support the team to a memorable win. Some 20 or so coaches will be departing HQ in at 10pm tonight so I can’t imagine how fatigued everyone will be when we get on the ground in the northern province of South Africa. Oh.....and as I write, we have just had a public announcement over the ground p.a. announcing that there is currently snow falling in Rustenburg!
The fanatic’s management team had the afternoon planned for a fluorescent party at the local famous establishment of Joe Cools. So with yellow cricket pants in tow, (ok, they were in our bags just in case) off we trundled to the beach side for a good hearty meal before the mass took to an afternoon of partying. Unfortunately for Durban and the fanatics, the weather gods were not kind, and the rooftop party quickly became a pool side retreat of torrential rain. Never mind....there was football to be watched, so watch football we would do.
This evening was back at HQ for another exciting episode of the panel. Tonight was all about the aussies and which way we would or could go to commence our climb to the top of the group. Teams were named, ideas were presented and opinions were forwarded. I believe we have it, stop the press....the fanatics found all the requirements to essentially hand Australia a pathway to the final. Amazing what truck load of Australians and a shipment of castle lager can achieve. The night was completed with another game of football and the next big shock of the world cup. Or was it? It appears that the 2006 runners up may now be now be destined for an early holiday after a 2-0 loss to the Mexicans. It surprised most how poorly the French performed, but it just goes to show that when you are on the biggest stage, you have to be at your best.
Today was an early morning rise, with the tour party and our newly made friends from Bunbury (Thelma and Louise....or was that Brian?) heading of the local attraction of Ushaka Marine World. Ushaka is made up of two worlds which essentially make up what is similar to Sea World and Wet and Wild back at home. From the dolphins to seals....stingrays to sharks, it was a pleasant change of scenery from the gorillas and wild boars of the fanatics HQ. (just kidding guys). Lunch at Ushaka gave us the chance to sit and relax and support out German friends to victory over Serbia....incorrect assumption number 376. Serbia was to set the next biggest shock of the world cup with a 1-0 win. I am not sure how much worse it can really get for our green and gold combatants, however reality is we need to win games to progress and there is no time like the present.
So now the party is showered and prepared for a 36 hour round trip to Rustenburg, where I am hoping everyone will be in fine voice to support the team to a memorable win. Some 20 or so coaches will be departing HQ in at 10pm tonight so I can’t imagine how fatigued everyone will be when we get on the ground in the northern province of South Africa. Oh.....and as I write, we have just had a public announcement over the ground p.a. announcing that there is currently snow falling in Rustenburg!
17 June 2010
We're hunting wabbits
A group of 120 fanatics had an early rise this morning with the opportunity to go on a safari...yes, in true Steve Irwin fashion, the fanatics were in search of the big five. So a 5.30am start for a 3 hour bus ride to the Hluhluwe Imfolozi Reserve. Now the brilliance of these reserves is that there is no fencing and the animals are not captured and placed within the environment. They are at home and we are in their territory. There are gravel and sealed roads winding amongst the thick foliage, and the 9 seater 4-wheel drives just manage to fit through in some areas with branches brushing the sides of the car. And when you realise how close you actually come to some of the wildlife, scary thoughts start to conger.
I must admit that this was one of the events of the tour of which yours truly was most looking forward to. Unfortunately we only had the opportunity to spend 3 or so hours venturing through the harsh vegetation, but the opportunity to come across the Lion, Cheetah, Elephant, Rhino or Water Buffalo (the Big 5) in their own environment and up close set an air of expectation for all. Sadly for us, the day was cold and windy, so the chance of seeing any of the pre mentioned was less than the norm.
Unfortunately for us, the Lions, Cheetah’s and Elephants were too elusive, however one lucky group of 9 managed to see a Lion feeding some 10 metres from their vehicle. Fortunately for the group, we had one of the more successful days of the touring party, coming across many giraffe’s, Water Buffalo, Impala, and even the great white Rhino. It amazes me how close to the animals that you actually are at times before you can even pick them out. At one point a 6 metre giraffe appeared approximately 5 metres from the vehicle, and walked along beside us and around the vehicle. For that one minute in time I thought I was a cast member in Jurassic Park. It was another experience within this beautiful country that we will never ever forget.
On the return to Durban HQ, we managed to catch the game between Spain and Switzerland. And so on the last game of the first round for each country came the first upset of the tournament. For many, the Spanish are the outrageous favourites, so for European minnows the Swiss, the result was met with absolute euphoria around Durban, and it will be very interesting to see whether Spain can recover to move through to the knockout stages.
Tonight’s entertainment at HQ took us back to our teenage years. The fanatics were treated to a night live with Fatboy Slim. Even the panel managed to cut a groove to the world renowned DJ. Charlie’s wife was seen to set the dance floor alight with her light footed steps, however some of the movers and groovers would have done better to pull up a bean bag as the heavy feet almost managed to register on the Richter scale....I’m no Fred Astaire, but it’s amazing what a castle lager or two can do to one’s rhythm and flare.
I must admit that this was one of the events of the tour of which yours truly was most looking forward to. Unfortunately we only had the opportunity to spend 3 or so hours venturing through the harsh vegetation, but the opportunity to come across the Lion, Cheetah, Elephant, Rhino or Water Buffalo (the Big 5) in their own environment and up close set an air of expectation for all. Sadly for us, the day was cold and windy, so the chance of seeing any of the pre mentioned was less than the norm.
Unfortunately for us, the Lions, Cheetah’s and Elephants were too elusive, however one lucky group of 9 managed to see a Lion feeding some 10 metres from their vehicle. Fortunately for the group, we had one of the more successful days of the touring party, coming across many giraffe’s, Water Buffalo, Impala, and even the great white Rhino. It amazes me how close to the animals that you actually are at times before you can even pick them out. At one point a 6 metre giraffe appeared approximately 5 metres from the vehicle, and walked along beside us and around the vehicle. For that one minute in time I thought I was a cast member in Jurassic Park. It was another experience within this beautiful country that we will never ever forget.
On the return to Durban HQ, we managed to catch the game between Spain and Switzerland. And so on the last game of the first round for each country came the first upset of the tournament. For many, the Spanish are the outrageous favourites, so for European minnows the Swiss, the result was met with absolute euphoria around Durban, and it will be very interesting to see whether Spain can recover to move through to the knockout stages.
Tonight’s entertainment at HQ took us back to our teenage years. The fanatics were treated to a night live with Fatboy Slim. Even the panel managed to cut a groove to the world renowned DJ. Charlie’s wife was seen to set the dance floor alight with her light footed steps, however some of the movers and groovers would have done better to pull up a bean bag as the heavy feet almost managed to register on the Richter scale....I’m no Fred Astaire, but it’s amazing what a castle lager or two can do to one’s rhythm and flare.
Two, Three & Rest... well.. maybe!
Tuesday this week was set aside for the fanatics to enjoy for themselves the fun and festivities of Durban. Of course this meant the ability to sit, relax and rejuvenate the batteries. Of course selfishly for the guys, the rest day also meant a few quiet beverages in front of the big screen enjoying 3 live games of football. This was incorrect assumption number 342....the girls saw this day as the perfect opportunity to do what they do best and visit the southern hemispheres largest shopping centre....The Gateway.
The journey to The Gateway was an experience following perfectly good instructions down to town hall, off we trekked. Upon arrival to the steps of town hall we were advised that the shuttle buses actually left from the transit area of which we had past some 20 minutes ago. Yay! So after 45 mins of hiking through the main streets of Durban, off we went on our $1.60 bus to the centre of the shopping universe as we knew it. I must admit, the shopping venture wasn’t so bad after all. In fact, with approximately 10-12 sport stores and its own Go-Kart track and Wave Pool (for surfing and body boarding) the day had the potential to become a boy’s heaven...oh well...incorrect assumption number 343. Although, we did manage to get to watch the New Zealand boys strut their stuff in the 1-1 draw over lunch. The establishment full of aussies watching their Anzac partners was filled with great happiness for their success.......I never thought in my wildest dreams I would sit and support a New Zealand national team, but I am running a slight temperature.
On return to HQ tonight the fanatics we were once again treated to the panel of experts. This was the first opportunity to critique the Australian game, and one Mr Mark Bosnich was stinging in his interpretation of the performance. I have to be honest, there was not many who could argue with Boz. It was great to hear also from Charlie Yankos and how passionate he was not only of the poor performance but of what he saw as the best band of supporters he had ever experienced....and again I can’t disagree. The Australians are once again proving that it does not take a large physical presence to make an impact, it’s the colour and song that come along with it. Seriously, including the Brazilians, I am yet to see greater.
The night was drawn to a close with the Brazil v Korea DPR. Seriously, what is with the coach announcing in the press that there is no such country as North Korea? It is a first for me, and what was even worse to hear was that the game was being beamed back to North Korea live and yet the government had not yet decided whether they would allow the nation to watch it live or possibly even not at all? That’s just un-Australian....well it is! And to the game, the Koreans certainly impressed me with their defence and made it very difficult for the Brazilians to penetrate. One had the thought that if the South Americans were going to get away with this one, they would require something special....and they did. In the blink of an eye, whether it was meant or not, from one foot inside the end line and with no right at all to shoot from there, Maicon in the 55th minute provides a wonder strike to force the ball inside the near post. Unfortunately from there, the Brazilians took to the front foot, although Korea DPR managed to get themselves a little reward for effort with a late goal to finish on the respectable score line of 2-1.
The journey to The Gateway was an experience following perfectly good instructions down to town hall, off we trekked. Upon arrival to the steps of town hall we were advised that the shuttle buses actually left from the transit area of which we had past some 20 minutes ago. Yay! So after 45 mins of hiking through the main streets of Durban, off we went on our $1.60 bus to the centre of the shopping universe as we knew it. I must admit, the shopping venture wasn’t so bad after all. In fact, with approximately 10-12 sport stores and its own Go-Kart track and Wave Pool (for surfing and body boarding) the day had the potential to become a boy’s heaven...oh well...incorrect assumption number 343. Although, we did manage to get to watch the New Zealand boys strut their stuff in the 1-1 draw over lunch. The establishment full of aussies watching their Anzac partners was filled with great happiness for their success.......I never thought in my wildest dreams I would sit and support a New Zealand national team, but I am running a slight temperature.
On return to HQ tonight the fanatics we were once again treated to the panel of experts. This was the first opportunity to critique the Australian game, and one Mr Mark Bosnich was stinging in his interpretation of the performance. I have to be honest, there was not many who could argue with Boz. It was great to hear also from Charlie Yankos and how passionate he was not only of the poor performance but of what he saw as the best band of supporters he had ever experienced....and again I can’t disagree. The Australians are once again proving that it does not take a large physical presence to make an impact, it’s the colour and song that come along with it. Seriously, including the Brazilians, I am yet to see greater.
The night was drawn to a close with the Brazil v Korea DPR. Seriously, what is with the coach announcing in the press that there is no such country as North Korea? It is a first for me, and what was even worse to hear was that the game was being beamed back to North Korea live and yet the government had not yet decided whether they would allow the nation to watch it live or possibly even not at all? That’s just un-Australian....well it is! And to the game, the Koreans certainly impressed me with their defence and made it very difficult for the Brazilians to penetrate. One had the thought that if the South Americans were going to get away with this one, they would require something special....and they did. In the blink of an eye, whether it was meant or not, from one foot inside the end line and with no right at all to shoot from there, Maicon in the 55th minute provides a wonder strike to force the ball inside the near post. Unfortunately from there, the Brazilians took to the front foot, although Korea DPR managed to get themselves a little reward for effort with a late goal to finish on the respectable score line of 2-1.
15 June 2010
Back to School
HQ Durban this morning arose to a very sombre atmosphere. The talk around camp was all about the how’s, the when’s, the where’s and the why’s. Whilst each individual realistically thought a draw would be a good result against the Germans, no one could have seen a 4 goal rout coming. Was Pim to blame for not playing a striker? Could he have changed the shape and players earlier in the game? Why were so many players playing out of position? Yep that’s right...it was time for the 1000 coaches to have their say.
But if 1200 aussies thought that their world had come to an end, it was all put in to perspective today with a visit to the township of Woza eNanda. Woza eNanda is approximately 20 mins outside of Durban up in the hills, and the view from there back to the city is breathtaking. The roads on the way in to the township were lined with signs portraying a warm welcome to the fanatics. There was a constant flow of waves from the locals who had entered the streets in the expectation of our visit.
But it’s not until you get on the ground that you realise how simple millions and millions of South Africans live their lives and how insignificant the rest of the world would become for some 5 hours of our of own. A procession of buses disembarked passengers at the main road leading in to the township. A few had gathered at the bottom of the hill to greet us and lead the walk up the hill to the local school. As you walked along the road, it was clear to see the poverty of which some of them live in.
On arrival to the gates of the school ground we were met by hundreds of students and locals. The Vevezula’s and drums were in fine form accompanied by singing and dancing by all. It was at this point that you could tell that the locals thought that all their wishes were granted at once. The smiles, the excitement and the warmth of the people was for many of us overwhelming and even I have to admit to the frog in the throat and possibly a slight tear in the eye.
The barrage of children was electric all wanting to have their photos taken with an Australian. The funny part about it was that it was with our own camera’s, however they just wanted to see what they looked like on the digital screen. Two of the school girls at one stage gave each other a high five and one of them of them commented to the other “you look hot!”
As we progressed our way through the school, we were given some history of the area, but it was very hard to listen when all you wanted to do was watch the euphoria in the children’s smiles and eyes. I think a few of us got to the point where we wanted to pack in our bags to bring home. I did however learn that this school was built to be a local police station. However Nelson Mandela overruled this decision to make way for the school in honour of one of the locals John Dube. John was the founder of the ANC or African National Congress.
From a guided tour of the school grounds, we were invited to attend the local football stadium for lunch, refreshments and an 11 v 11 game of the fanatics v a local team. On arrival it was hard to imagine that this venue was known as a stadium, but to them it was their place of pride where the community came together as one. At this point the masses had grown to some 3000 strong to watch the shirtless Aussie fanatics take on the seniors and school team. Little had the locals known of the expertise enlisted by the fanatics, as Mark Bosnich and Charlie Yankos took to the playing field....and believe you me, the old master Charlie has still got it! The game concluded after two halves with the visitors winning unimpressively 1-0. During the festivities at the stadium, the aussies provided the locals with gifts and mementos of Australia, and by the time we left to depart back to HQ, it was increasingly difficult to make out the real fanatics from the adopted ones.
As the day came to a close, and we drove from the eNanda, the thoughts of a 4-0 loss to Germany had all faded away. The hardest thing to digest was the fact that many of these kids will be exposed to HIV, abuse and even possibly lives of crime. But for us, the ability to give them that one day in the spotlight was all well worth it....this was truly the experience of a lifetime.
But if 1200 aussies thought that their world had come to an end, it was all put in to perspective today with a visit to the township of Woza eNanda. Woza eNanda is approximately 20 mins outside of Durban up in the hills, and the view from there back to the city is breathtaking. The roads on the way in to the township were lined with signs portraying a warm welcome to the fanatics. There was a constant flow of waves from the locals who had entered the streets in the expectation of our visit.
But it’s not until you get on the ground that you realise how simple millions and millions of South Africans live their lives and how insignificant the rest of the world would become for some 5 hours of our of own. A procession of buses disembarked passengers at the main road leading in to the township. A few had gathered at the bottom of the hill to greet us and lead the walk up the hill to the local school. As you walked along the road, it was clear to see the poverty of which some of them live in.
On arrival to the gates of the school ground we were met by hundreds of students and locals. The Vevezula’s and drums were in fine form accompanied by singing and dancing by all. It was at this point that you could tell that the locals thought that all their wishes were granted at once. The smiles, the excitement and the warmth of the people was for many of us overwhelming and even I have to admit to the frog in the throat and possibly a slight tear in the eye.
The barrage of children was electric all wanting to have their photos taken with an Australian. The funny part about it was that it was with our own camera’s, however they just wanted to see what they looked like on the digital screen. Two of the school girls at one stage gave each other a high five and one of them of them commented to the other “you look hot!”
As we progressed our way through the school, we were given some history of the area, but it was very hard to listen when all you wanted to do was watch the euphoria in the children’s smiles and eyes. I think a few of us got to the point where we wanted to pack in our bags to bring home. I did however learn that this school was built to be a local police station. However Nelson Mandela overruled this decision to make way for the school in honour of one of the locals John Dube. John was the founder of the ANC or African National Congress.
From a guided tour of the school grounds, we were invited to attend the local football stadium for lunch, refreshments and an 11 v 11 game of the fanatics v a local team. On arrival it was hard to imagine that this venue was known as a stadium, but to them it was their place of pride where the community came together as one. At this point the masses had grown to some 3000 strong to watch the shirtless Aussie fanatics take on the seniors and school team. Little had the locals known of the expertise enlisted by the fanatics, as Mark Bosnich and Charlie Yankos took to the playing field....and believe you me, the old master Charlie has still got it! The game concluded after two halves with the visitors winning unimpressively 1-0. During the festivities at the stadium, the aussies provided the locals with gifts and mementos of Australia, and by the time we left to depart back to HQ, it was increasingly difficult to make out the real fanatics from the adopted ones.
As the day came to a close, and we drove from the eNanda, the thoughts of a 4-0 loss to Germany had all faded away. The hardest thing to digest was the fact that many of these kids will be exposed to HIV, abuse and even possibly lives of crime. But for us, the ability to give them that one day in the spotlight was all well worth it....this was truly the experience of a lifetime.
Australia 0 the other mob won.......
With reinforcements arriving in the early hours of the morning from Capetown, the atmosphere at HQ Durban was taken to a whole new level. This was the day that all of us had been long waiting for, the day that would see Australia open its 2010 World Cup campaign against one of the power houses of football.....bring on the Germans.
The preparation in camp began early with all the fanatics loading up well on carbohydrates and protein to assist with the energy they were to expend on this momentous day. There is no room for injury in the fanatics squad, so the warm up this morning was absolutely vital in our performance tonight. There were a few early scares leading up to lunch time with some of the Capetown crew requiring a kip after their 3am rise to fly in to Durban. All concerns however were soon alleviated when friends and family alike ensuring that the required levels of liquids were taken to once again build the enthusiasm of the individuals. A big thank you must go to Castle Brewers and Jack D for their assistance on this big day....we couldn’t have done it without you.
The HQ panel met today to discuss the hopes of a nation. Mel, Bozza and Charlie resumed their normal positions, and were ably assisted today by Irish Dave as the co host (of Hamish and Andy fame), Frank Arok in the dugout (former Socceroo coach) and Stan Lazaridis on the flanks (former Socceroo). It was a great opportunity for the fanatics to hear the opinions of some of the legends of the game in our country and to also hear of what they as former players required from Australia’s version of the barmy army. I got the distinct impression that Mr Arok is not a massive fan of coach Verbeek, which was probably confirmed for all of us by Frank’s reference to him as “the dutch guy”.
Mid afternoon the heavies arrived. There was still concern circulating with the regards to the level of which the fanatics were about to perform. All the media contingents had arrived on mass to witness the marvel of the green and gold army. Who didn’t want to be a part of this? It was 6 hours until kick off and any additional inspiration required presented in the shape of 2 great men......Steven Waugh and the head honcho of football in our country Mr Frank Lowy. Both Frank and Steve had a few words to say, and Steve’s comments to the head minister of Durban were priceless after the pre mentioned officially welcomed us all to his wonderful town and proceeded to indicate that whilst they beat us regularly at cricket they were right behind us on the football pitch. I don’t think I need to indicate what may have been said, other than that it was in true aussie cricket fashion. The fanatics had found their new leader!
In all honesty though, for the football purists back at home, it is such a positive for the game in our country to see the people and the faces that appear to support and march as one. As the speeches continued, one George from Masterchef slid his way into the crowd and obliviously made himself a part of the furniture...sadly for Georgy boy, yours truly had started to feel inspired and charged and managed to point him out in the crowd and lead a procession of photos and signatures. Sorry George.....my bad. Oh, and in my poor use of timing to peak at kick off, I may have also accidentally told one of the South African staff at HQ that I would give him my old Australian shirt off my back when I saw him the next day....pfft, it’s a sea of green and gold....he’ll never find me. Will he?
After all of the hype of the day, it was time to depart for the game. Some 2000 green and gold fanatics, or known in South Africa as nutters, marched our way down to the stadium in full voice. The atmosphere was electric from the moment of departure until the end of the game. The crowds hearing the obligatory renditions of Waltzing Matilda and aussie, aussie, aussie...oi, oi, oi. The colour and the spectacle were phenomenal to say the least, which was more that can be said for Australia’s performance. Sadly the lads went down to a far superior German outfit, but all is certainly not lost with there being every opportunity to progress to the knockout stages. I am still optimistic about our chances, however there will need to be a dramatic improvement. The best thing about the game was...well it is finished. That said, it is still hugely satisfying that we can get to see our national team play at the biggest sporting event on the planet. The equation I see it now is quite simple, beat Ghana, at minimum draw with Serbia and hope that the Germans can beat both. Easy from the arm chair isn’t it...
Onward and upward from here I say!
On a side note, the 14th of June is a special day for one of our family back at home. Happy Birthday to Georgia Rose! We love you and can’t wait to see you again soon.
The preparation in camp began early with all the fanatics loading up well on carbohydrates and protein to assist with the energy they were to expend on this momentous day. There is no room for injury in the fanatics squad, so the warm up this morning was absolutely vital in our performance tonight. There were a few early scares leading up to lunch time with some of the Capetown crew requiring a kip after their 3am rise to fly in to Durban. All concerns however were soon alleviated when friends and family alike ensuring that the required levels of liquids were taken to once again build the enthusiasm of the individuals. A big thank you must go to Castle Brewers and Jack D for their assistance on this big day....we couldn’t have done it without you.
The HQ panel met today to discuss the hopes of a nation. Mel, Bozza and Charlie resumed their normal positions, and were ably assisted today by Irish Dave as the co host (of Hamish and Andy fame), Frank Arok in the dugout (former Socceroo coach) and Stan Lazaridis on the flanks (former Socceroo). It was a great opportunity for the fanatics to hear the opinions of some of the legends of the game in our country and to also hear of what they as former players required from Australia’s version of the barmy army. I got the distinct impression that Mr Arok is not a massive fan of coach Verbeek, which was probably confirmed for all of us by Frank’s reference to him as “the dutch guy”.
Mid afternoon the heavies arrived. There was still concern circulating with the regards to the level of which the fanatics were about to perform. All the media contingents had arrived on mass to witness the marvel of the green and gold army. Who didn’t want to be a part of this? It was 6 hours until kick off and any additional inspiration required presented in the shape of 2 great men......Steven Waugh and the head honcho of football in our country Mr Frank Lowy. Both Frank and Steve had a few words to say, and Steve’s comments to the head minister of Durban were priceless after the pre mentioned officially welcomed us all to his wonderful town and proceeded to indicate that whilst they beat us regularly at cricket they were right behind us on the football pitch. I don’t think I need to indicate what may have been said, other than that it was in true aussie cricket fashion. The fanatics had found their new leader!
In all honesty though, for the football purists back at home, it is such a positive for the game in our country to see the people and the faces that appear to support and march as one. As the speeches continued, one George from Masterchef slid his way into the crowd and obliviously made himself a part of the furniture...sadly for Georgy boy, yours truly had started to feel inspired and charged and managed to point him out in the crowd and lead a procession of photos and signatures. Sorry George.....my bad. Oh, and in my poor use of timing to peak at kick off, I may have also accidentally told one of the South African staff at HQ that I would give him my old Australian shirt off my back when I saw him the next day....pfft, it’s a sea of green and gold....he’ll never find me. Will he?
After all of the hype of the day, it was time to depart for the game. Some 2000 green and gold fanatics, or known in South Africa as nutters, marched our way down to the stadium in full voice. The atmosphere was electric from the moment of departure until the end of the game. The crowds hearing the obligatory renditions of Waltzing Matilda and aussie, aussie, aussie...oi, oi, oi. The colour and the spectacle were phenomenal to say the least, which was more that can be said for Australia’s performance. Sadly the lads went down to a far superior German outfit, but all is certainly not lost with there being every opportunity to progress to the knockout stages. I am still optimistic about our chances, however there will need to be a dramatic improvement. The best thing about the game was...well it is finished. That said, it is still hugely satisfying that we can get to see our national team play at the biggest sporting event on the planet. The equation I see it now is quite simple, beat Ghana, at minimum draw with Serbia and hope that the Germans can beat both. Easy from the arm chair isn’t it...
Onward and upward from here I say!
On a side note, the 14th of June is a special day for one of our family back at home. Happy Birthday to Georgia Rose! We love you and can’t wait to see you again soon.
13 June 2010
The party has begun!
Well who said a camping ground was a tough way to live? As I write this morning and reflect on the day that had been, I sit perched high in the stands of Kingsmead cricket stadium located at approximately 3rd man. The only sad thought that runs through one’s mind is the site of 3 or 4 “athletes” going for their daily morning run....now ok, applause must go to them for their dedication, but please, this is not a boot camp. I thought we were on the tour of former players and coaches who now dedicated their time to enhancing their drinking capabilities?
June 12 in Durban saw the fanatics as a whole come to life, and I am sure this day will last forever in the minds of most of us. The day began with the allocation of the official match tickets. Now something so simple could be dismissed for most at a whim. However along with the tickets came the realisation that we were all at a Fifa World Cup and were privileged enough to be able to witness it firsthand. The excitement on some of the younger fanatics faces was absolutely priceless and for them there is no doubt this will be an experience of a lifetime to treasure.
But when did reality of the World Cup really hit? This day marked the dress rehearsal for game day, as around 1000 aussies disembarked on the march to Moses Mobheda Stadium. With the assistance of a police escort, the aussie contingent managed to shut down 3 lanes of a 4 lane highway and in the process enlist the support of hundreds of local South Africans to the Green and Gold Army. Voices were in fine form and the atmosphere was euphoric. There was however a process to the march, and some 20 mins after arrival to the ground, our beloved Socceroos team bus arrived for a late afternoon training session. The bus struggled to turn the corner into the stadium entry as everyone took the opportunity to get as close to their hero’s as possible. You could see the smiles on the players faces and their appreciation for the trek of many across to the other side of the world to support them.
Unfortunately, FIFA would not allow entry to the ground at this point, so the focus of the night now turned to England vs the USA. The rumours circulating that the U.S would be more or less a no show were soon in the short term confirmed as after just a few minutes Gerrard tucked away the opener. As the game wore on one could sense that at least a draw or possibly an upset was imminent, and then it presented. Why is it always England that manage to receive the almost improbable? Hand of god, Calamity James and now Mr Green.....the heart of a nation must have sunk. It will be interesting now to see if the England gaffa will look to replace one calamity with another? Mr Capello, I believe I have some gloves in my bag if you require someone who can walk and catch at the same time?
Now if this day had not have been brilliant enough as it was, things were only about to get better. Durban HQ became the epicentre of live music as Brissie boys Powderfinger graced us with a live performance. It was great to see some additions to tonight’s audience, with the panel of Mark Bosnich, Charlie Yankos and Mel McLaughlin along with the federal minister for sport Kate Ellis and the Sydney Morning Herald’s Paul Kent in...Well let’s just say in fine form. The boys are unfortunately going their separate ways at the end of the year, so the privilege for us to see them before they do so was a very memorable occasion. The fanatics were in fine voice and you can only hope that the voice transcends in to today’s support for our national pride.
After the concert in the early hours of the morning, most were content with a days’ work and were on the move back to their tents....but wait! Little had we realised that just 40 metres away Simon Hill was preparing for his live 8am cross, Weekend sunrise were also doing live updates and if that wasn’t enough, Cameron Williams from channel 9’s today show was also doing his thing to make sure Australia was up to date. So of course be would have to wait for the time being. And so the song continued for another hour, as the presenters struggled to hear themselves speak. I am sure that everyone seeing these reports is starting to get an understanding of the emotion here on the ground, and believe me it is an experience that is worth more than the time and expense to get there.
And now to today....as I sit overlooking the camp come to life, our fellow fanatics have arrived on an overnight bus trip from Capetown. Some 500 strong have come to join forces to take on the German supporters. We can only hope that no one mentions the war....oops, there you go I mentioned the war. It’s all in good banter, and I for one can’t wait to hear the new tunes that present to us over the course of the day.
June 12 in Durban saw the fanatics as a whole come to life, and I am sure this day will last forever in the minds of most of us. The day began with the allocation of the official match tickets. Now something so simple could be dismissed for most at a whim. However along with the tickets came the realisation that we were all at a Fifa World Cup and were privileged enough to be able to witness it firsthand. The excitement on some of the younger fanatics faces was absolutely priceless and for them there is no doubt this will be an experience of a lifetime to treasure.
But when did reality of the World Cup really hit? This day marked the dress rehearsal for game day, as around 1000 aussies disembarked on the march to Moses Mobheda Stadium. With the assistance of a police escort, the aussie contingent managed to shut down 3 lanes of a 4 lane highway and in the process enlist the support of hundreds of local South Africans to the Green and Gold Army. Voices were in fine form and the atmosphere was euphoric. There was however a process to the march, and some 20 mins after arrival to the ground, our beloved Socceroos team bus arrived for a late afternoon training session. The bus struggled to turn the corner into the stadium entry as everyone took the opportunity to get as close to their hero’s as possible. You could see the smiles on the players faces and their appreciation for the trek of many across to the other side of the world to support them.
Unfortunately, FIFA would not allow entry to the ground at this point, so the focus of the night now turned to England vs the USA. The rumours circulating that the U.S would be more or less a no show were soon in the short term confirmed as after just a few minutes Gerrard tucked away the opener. As the game wore on one could sense that at least a draw or possibly an upset was imminent, and then it presented. Why is it always England that manage to receive the almost improbable? Hand of god, Calamity James and now Mr Green.....the heart of a nation must have sunk. It will be interesting now to see if the England gaffa will look to replace one calamity with another? Mr Capello, I believe I have some gloves in my bag if you require someone who can walk and catch at the same time?
Now if this day had not have been brilliant enough as it was, things were only about to get better. Durban HQ became the epicentre of live music as Brissie boys Powderfinger graced us with a live performance. It was great to see some additions to tonight’s audience, with the panel of Mark Bosnich, Charlie Yankos and Mel McLaughlin along with the federal minister for sport Kate Ellis and the Sydney Morning Herald’s Paul Kent in...Well let’s just say in fine form. The boys are unfortunately going their separate ways at the end of the year, so the privilege for us to see them before they do so was a very memorable occasion. The fanatics were in fine voice and you can only hope that the voice transcends in to today’s support for our national pride.
After the concert in the early hours of the morning, most were content with a days’ work and were on the move back to their tents....but wait! Little had we realised that just 40 metres away Simon Hill was preparing for his live 8am cross, Weekend sunrise were also doing live updates and if that wasn’t enough, Cameron Williams from channel 9’s today show was also doing his thing to make sure Australia was up to date. So of course be would have to wait for the time being. And so the song continued for another hour, as the presenters struggled to hear themselves speak. I am sure that everyone seeing these reports is starting to get an understanding of the emotion here on the ground, and believe me it is an experience that is worth more than the time and expense to get there.
And now to today....as I sit overlooking the camp come to life, our fellow fanatics have arrived on an overnight bus trip from Capetown. Some 500 strong have come to join forces to take on the German supporters. We can only hope that no one mentions the war....oops, there you go I mentioned the war. It’s all in good banter, and I for one can’t wait to hear the new tunes that present to us over the course of the day.
12 June 2010
And so the games begin!
Today saw the first ball kicked in anger, for the 2010 Fifa World Cup. It's been a long time coming for Australian fans making the long journey across the world to support the might of the green and gold. But boy was it worth it!
Australians today in Durban had the chance to experience the passion that is instilled into each and every proud South African. The colour, the song, the dance...it seriously doesn't get much better than this.
Approximately 1000 fanatics took the opportunity to walk down to the beach in Durban to experience the World Cup opener between Mexico and Bafana Bafana. (a term of endearment which means 'the boys the boys'). Durban is one of many hosts to the official FIFA live sites, and to the say that the atmosphere was electric would be an overwhelming understatement. The aussies and the South Africans danced and sung as one in the hope that Bafana Bafana could take out a memorable victory.
Over the first 20 or so minutes, the general feeling amongst the aussies was to possibly do an about turn to avoid the potentially imminent disappointment. Mexico pushed forward at will, and it seemed simply a matter of time before Mexico would score the opening goal of the tournament. Thankfully for all, half time eventually turned and the scored remained at 0-0.
But then it came, and I am sure that alot of fanatics on the ground will agree in saying that the euphoria post the South Africans goal was absolutely enchanting. There were kisses and hugs coming like no tomorrow from the home supporters, and that was just the guys! The Vuvuzela's were in full swing sounding the songs of triumph and for that single moment in time, the aussies were the proudest South Africans going around. Sadly for our Bafana Bafana friends, the win was taken away from them late in the game, however our friends appeared still tall and proud of what their national team had achieved.
Now on the Vuvuzela's....for those that are unaware, the South African's introduced an instrument of which is horn like called the Vuvuzela. The Vuvuzela is sometimes also known in Africa as a "lepatata". I for one am all for atmosphere and song, but these Vuvuzela's are starting to drive even the most diehard supporter around the twist. When the HQ Durban panel talk, someone interupts with a Vuvuzela...when you finally drift off to sleep, a car drives past the stadium with the passenger in full swing on a Vuvuzela.......there is no escaping them! In fact, I heard one young child in the camp say he woke up from a bad dream this morning, and it turns out he was being attacked by a Vuvuzela in a German strip! I would like to make it quite clear, that none of the four of us are expecting a Vuvuzela for our next birthdays!
P.S....to Janet's friends and family. I think we may have converted her. It appeared in the first half of the game Janet was partially underwhelmed, as after all, it is just sport.......oh dear. But then thanks to our Bafana Bafana friends, the sleeping giant awoke! Yes, we all saw your hips jiggling from side to side to the beat of a drum Janet. There is no escaping it, football fever that is.....welcome to the club!
Australians today in Durban had the chance to experience the passion that is instilled into each and every proud South African. The colour, the song, the dance...it seriously doesn't get much better than this.
Approximately 1000 fanatics took the opportunity to walk down to the beach in Durban to experience the World Cup opener between Mexico and Bafana Bafana. (a term of endearment which means 'the boys the boys'). Durban is one of many hosts to the official FIFA live sites, and to the say that the atmosphere was electric would be an overwhelming understatement. The aussies and the South Africans danced and sung as one in the hope that Bafana Bafana could take out a memorable victory.
Over the first 20 or so minutes, the general feeling amongst the aussies was to possibly do an about turn to avoid the potentially imminent disappointment. Mexico pushed forward at will, and it seemed simply a matter of time before Mexico would score the opening goal of the tournament. Thankfully for all, half time eventually turned and the scored remained at 0-0.
But then it came, and I am sure that alot of fanatics on the ground will agree in saying that the euphoria post the South Africans goal was absolutely enchanting. There were kisses and hugs coming like no tomorrow from the home supporters, and that was just the guys! The Vuvuzela's were in full swing sounding the songs of triumph and for that single moment in time, the aussies were the proudest South Africans going around. Sadly for our Bafana Bafana friends, the win was taken away from them late in the game, however our friends appeared still tall and proud of what their national team had achieved.
Now on the Vuvuzela's....for those that are unaware, the South African's introduced an instrument of which is horn like called the Vuvuzela. The Vuvuzela is sometimes also known in Africa as a "lepatata". I for one am all for atmosphere and song, but these Vuvuzela's are starting to drive even the most diehard supporter around the twist. When the HQ Durban panel talk, someone interupts with a Vuvuzela...when you finally drift off to sleep, a car drives past the stadium with the passenger in full swing on a Vuvuzela.......there is no escaping them! In fact, I heard one young child in the camp say he woke up from a bad dream this morning, and it turns out he was being attacked by a Vuvuzela in a German strip! I would like to make it quite clear, that none of the four of us are expecting a Vuvuzela for our next birthdays!
P.S....to Janet's friends and family. I think we may have converted her. It appeared in the first half of the game Janet was partially underwhelmed, as after all, it is just sport.......oh dear. But then thanks to our Bafana Bafana friends, the sleeping giant awoke! Yes, we all saw your hips jiggling from side to side to the beat of a drum Janet. There is no escaping it, football fever that is.....welcome to the club!
11 June 2010
Is it hot in here?
So the first official day of the tour has passed us. Hundreds of additional fanatics slowly made their way through the turn stiles to be anointed as HQ Durban representatives. They came from all over, they came with one common goal, and most of all they came with a thirst....as a matter of fact, I’ve got one now!
It is still a little hard to comprehend the prices for food and drink. At HQ it costs a fanatic around the AU$9 mark for 4 beers. Ah I remember those days. In fact they are the same prices of which greet you at the local establishments no matter where you go. The food is a much similar situation, and at this point I have to say that I have certainly consumed my fair share of the local product. Durban itself is very influenced by Indian culture, so to say that spice is a part of everyday life is probably fair.
Now of course, like many others I have the attitude of “when in Rome....”. Hence yesterday the 4 of us challenged ourselves to simply ensure we each had a different meal to compare. So at lunch time off we trot. Walking the local streets for the first time was met with caution, however it was fantastic to see the smiles on the locals faces and the manner of which they warmed to the aussies about the town. The stroll down to the beach guided us to the doors of one “Joe Cool’s”. Joe’s is very very popular amongst tourists, so of course it was time for Joe’s to meet the aussies head first....Unfortunately for yours truly, Joe’s 1, David 0.
Around the table the orders are placed, and given my pure inability to quickly select from a menu, I select a dish of which I have no clue about whatsoever other than a description of that it “has spice” and that the friendly natured waitress would talk to the chef to process the dish as mild. The dishes are presented and it looks to one as a chicken curry looking dish. I then ascertain that it is chicken sautéed in brandy with a curry style sauce accompanied by 3 descent sized toasted bread pieces. As you have probably now guessed, this is where the adventure begins. With a dip of the bread in the curry, the first mouthful is consumed and a taste of delight filled my body with pure satisfaction. As simple looking as it was, this dish was absolutely divine...until.
Now normally one would associate the fine red specs scattered throughout the meal as...oh I don’t know, maybe Chilli? Not this little duck! Slowly the cooking process begins, if one oven wasn’t enough within the establishment, then maybe turning me into one was suffice? Every mouthful consumed was like another log to a fire. The taste so overwhelming that I would not allow such a simple looking dish with a little heat to get the better of me. The crowd around me began removing their jackets, and by this time news outlets had started to report an apocalypse was occurring as it was never before seen of the sun sinking in the East?!
I still to this moment declare that it is the finest tasting curry of which I have ever taken to task. And I reminded that to many at 9pm, 11pm, 3am and 6am this morning........Just like Johnny Cash, ” I walked the line!”
Oh and by the way, I am sincerely hoping to hear news from home that someone recorded my interview on TV Vietnem. Of course it is just so great to hear that Kim and Janet have been on channel 9 some 4 or 5 times now and that they are now the stars of football in Australia, but for crying out loud, come on, surely someone has TV Vietnam at home?
It is still a little hard to comprehend the prices for food and drink. At HQ it costs a fanatic around the AU$9 mark for 4 beers. Ah I remember those days. In fact they are the same prices of which greet you at the local establishments no matter where you go. The food is a much similar situation, and at this point I have to say that I have certainly consumed my fair share of the local product. Durban itself is very influenced by Indian culture, so to say that spice is a part of everyday life is probably fair.
Now of course, like many others I have the attitude of “when in Rome....”. Hence yesterday the 4 of us challenged ourselves to simply ensure we each had a different meal to compare. So at lunch time off we trot. Walking the local streets for the first time was met with caution, however it was fantastic to see the smiles on the locals faces and the manner of which they warmed to the aussies about the town. The stroll down to the beach guided us to the doors of one “Joe Cool’s”. Joe’s is very very popular amongst tourists, so of course it was time for Joe’s to meet the aussies head first....Unfortunately for yours truly, Joe’s 1, David 0.
Around the table the orders are placed, and given my pure inability to quickly select from a menu, I select a dish of which I have no clue about whatsoever other than a description of that it “has spice” and that the friendly natured waitress would talk to the chef to process the dish as mild. The dishes are presented and it looks to one as a chicken curry looking dish. I then ascertain that it is chicken sautéed in brandy with a curry style sauce accompanied by 3 descent sized toasted bread pieces. As you have probably now guessed, this is where the adventure begins. With a dip of the bread in the curry, the first mouthful is consumed and a taste of delight filled my body with pure satisfaction. As simple looking as it was, this dish was absolutely divine...until.
Now normally one would associate the fine red specs scattered throughout the meal as...oh I don’t know, maybe Chilli? Not this little duck! Slowly the cooking process begins, if one oven wasn’t enough within the establishment, then maybe turning me into one was suffice? Every mouthful consumed was like another log to a fire. The taste so overwhelming that I would not allow such a simple looking dish with a little heat to get the better of me. The crowd around me began removing their jackets, and by this time news outlets had started to report an apocalypse was occurring as it was never before seen of the sun sinking in the East?!
I still to this moment declare that it is the finest tasting curry of which I have ever taken to task. And I reminded that to many at 9pm, 11pm, 3am and 6am this morning........Just like Johnny Cash, ” I walked the line!”
Oh and by the way, I am sincerely hoping to hear news from home that someone recorded my interview on TV Vietnem. Of course it is just so great to hear that Kim and Janet have been on channel 9 some 4 or 5 times now and that they are now the stars of football in Australia, but for crying out loud, come on, surely someone has TV Vietnam at home?
10 June 2010
The eagle has landed
After all this time, Africa has finally welcomed the tour group. I must admit I didn't expect the fan fare in the airport at Johannesburg to be as it was before the tournament has even commenced. But it was....I can honestly say that the Green and Gold was More prevalent than any of the other countries represented at this point on the ground.
It was from there, that some 80 Australians embarked on a 7 hour bus ride from Joburg to Durban to complete the final leg of travel before the bonanza began. It really is amazing what you can learn from a bus seat, and I have to say that it was very very humbling but also somewhat inspirational just observing.
For those that may have been on the search for the road to nowhere, look no further. Yes, we discovered it today, however I am unable to tell you where it starts or finishes. One road, just one whole road from just outside Joburg through to the outskirts of Durban after some 500 or so kilometers. Seriously, I started to wonder if it was like the movies and the expectation should be that you end up where you started from?
Driving along the freeway it was clear to all that the housing situation in the country is somewhat bleak. People living in what could only be described as the size of a double garage. Shanty type towns were scattered near and far, and it took me about 4 hours of the ride to realise that the rocks on the roofs were in fact the tool of securing the roof to the main structure.
The life here is obviously all so different...or is it? You know, I looked at people as we drove past them on the road....hitch hikers everywhere, school kids running in the oval, road workers downing tools..... and the reality is, they weren't thinking about how good the aussies have got it, rather than smiling and presenting us with the most honest and open welcome to their country. Most of these people it seems are possibly aware that life could be better, but accept the fact that what they have will steer them forward in life.
For the football purists, Africa it appears is your place to be...the amount of schools and communities we past in one day where people were kicking about the football....not necessarily any goals, just the football. We saw goal posts sitting in fields however where it didn't even seem possible that people were even located. From school grass yards, to a dirt pitch in one of the shanty towns, it was clear that there is one common pleasure amongst all....the great game.
Oh, and for my fellow communications employees back at home...we can never again complain of the conditions in which we are asked to perform. As soon as we left the airport today, there was a procession of workers negotiating a ditch for pipe. Now this ditch was what appeared to be about 4 feet deep. The catch was, whilst we saw some machinery hundreds of km's down the road, there were some 10 men manually forging towards this one common purpose. Yep with mattocks in hand, they dug and they swung without a hesitation. Oh and by the way...sugar cane, I have never seen so much. In fact, I am told that South Africa is the only country in the world that produces more sugar than they actually consume. Again the catch...the harvesting is completed purely by hand...and all for around AU $6 a day.
I now going to be a tad selfish and ask for assistance from friends, family and readers back at home. Upon arrival into Joburg airport, the group was met by a media contingency. As it turns out, yours truly was singled out to perform an interview with one of the reporters, so if anyone at all could tape it for me it would be met with overwhelming appreciation! Oh, did I also mention it was TV Vietnam? Yeah great...and then on arrival to HQ Durban, the partner gets the royal treatment. I get TV Vietnam, and Kimbo gets interviewed by one channel 10 Sports Tonight program and then also by channel 9. So if you manage to get to watch either of these channels over the next day or so, keep an eye out for the 5 foot female Socceroo supporter...and no I am NOT jealous. Maybe just a little.....
What a day....I have to be honest and say that even after a mere 12 hours on the ground in the South Africa, I am inspired by the people of this country that meet adversity face to face....it truly is filled with inspiring people.
It was from there, that some 80 Australians embarked on a 7 hour bus ride from Joburg to Durban to complete the final leg of travel before the bonanza began. It really is amazing what you can learn from a bus seat, and I have to say that it was very very humbling but also somewhat inspirational just observing.
For those that may have been on the search for the road to nowhere, look no further. Yes, we discovered it today, however I am unable to tell you where it starts or finishes. One road, just one whole road from just outside Joburg through to the outskirts of Durban after some 500 or so kilometers. Seriously, I started to wonder if it was like the movies and the expectation should be that you end up where you started from?
Driving along the freeway it was clear to all that the housing situation in the country is somewhat bleak. People living in what could only be described as the size of a double garage. Shanty type towns were scattered near and far, and it took me about 4 hours of the ride to realise that the rocks on the roofs were in fact the tool of securing the roof to the main structure.
The life here is obviously all so different...or is it? You know, I looked at people as we drove past them on the road....hitch hikers everywhere, school kids running in the oval, road workers downing tools..... and the reality is, they weren't thinking about how good the aussies have got it, rather than smiling and presenting us with the most honest and open welcome to their country. Most of these people it seems are possibly aware that life could be better, but accept the fact that what they have will steer them forward in life.
For the football purists, Africa it appears is your place to be...the amount of schools and communities we past in one day where people were kicking about the football....not necessarily any goals, just the football. We saw goal posts sitting in fields however where it didn't even seem possible that people were even located. From school grass yards, to a dirt pitch in one of the shanty towns, it was clear that there is one common pleasure amongst all....the great game.
Oh, and for my fellow communications employees back at home...we can never again complain of the conditions in which we are asked to perform. As soon as we left the airport today, there was a procession of workers negotiating a ditch for pipe. Now this ditch was what appeared to be about 4 feet deep. The catch was, whilst we saw some machinery hundreds of km's down the road, there were some 10 men manually forging towards this one common purpose. Yep with mattocks in hand, they dug and they swung without a hesitation. Oh and by the way...sugar cane, I have never seen so much. In fact, I am told that South Africa is the only country in the world that produces more sugar than they actually consume. Again the catch...the harvesting is completed purely by hand...and all for around AU $6 a day.
I now going to be a tad selfish and ask for assistance from friends, family and readers back at home. Upon arrival into Joburg airport, the group was met by a media contingency. As it turns out, yours truly was singled out to perform an interview with one of the reporters, so if anyone at all could tape it for me it would be met with overwhelming appreciation! Oh, did I also mention it was TV Vietnam? Yeah great...and then on arrival to HQ Durban, the partner gets the royal treatment. I get TV Vietnam, and Kimbo gets interviewed by one channel 10 Sports Tonight program and then also by channel 9. So if you manage to get to watch either of these channels over the next day or so, keep an eye out for the 5 foot female Socceroo supporter...and no I am NOT jealous. Maybe just a little.....
What a day....I have to be honest and say that even after a mere 12 hours on the ground in the South Africa, I am inspired by the people of this country that meet adversity face to face....it truly is filled with inspiring people.
09 June 2010
Are we there yet?
After months on end of excitement, reality of the travel has hit. After some 20 sleepless hours, 8 of which on a flight with a young girl kicking one in the lower back region, finally we land in Singapore with the first part of the plane journey behind us. The minutes ticked over not unlike the sand in an hour glass...3 episodes of "How I Met Your Mother", 1 episode of "American Chopper", 1 round of tournament golf, (ok well 4 holes until I couldn't get the ball across the water on a 375m par 3?), 1 new release Mel Gibson movie which was so good that I can't remember the title and a red wine beef that was well worth the flight on its own.
Fatigue had almost taken it's toll on the group, however the emergence of Australian fans throughout Changi airport has risen the adrenalin to another level. Green and Gold has taken over the airport, to the point where it is hard to pick out any other nationality...ok again not quite true. We happen to be in an Irish pub...so where else would the Aussies be?
As we sip the next beverage, the U.S. is about to take on the Netherlands in the last friendly for each before the world cup proper...Football, Football and Football....are we in Singapore or heaven?
Another 2 more hours and the next adventure begins........Bottoms up!
Fatigue had almost taken it's toll on the group, however the emergence of Australian fans throughout Changi airport has risen the adrenalin to another level. Green and Gold has taken over the airport, to the point where it is hard to pick out any other nationality...ok again not quite true. We happen to be in an Irish pub...so where else would the Aussies be?
As we sip the next beverage, the U.S. is about to take on the Netherlands in the last friendly for each before the world cup proper...Football, Football and Football....are we in Singapore or heaven?
Another 2 more hours and the next adventure begins........Bottoms up!
08 June 2010
We have lift off!
And so the journey begins. No more sleeps, no more talk...this really is it. In approximately 1 hour the touring party will hit the road for the train ride to the Brisbane International airport. I have to be honest and say that I am really not looking forward to the travelling time, however of course the excitement of getting on the ground in Africa is more than enough inspiration to have to put myself through it.
After a 1 hour train ride, the travel continues with an 8 hour spell through to Singapore. I suspect Changi airport will not know what's hit it, as I have read that there is a new FIFA store open just in time for our arrival.....there goes the savings! With a 5 hour stop over, there will be plenty of time for shopping, relaxing, drinking and I am sure reflection on the next 10 hour flight over to Johannesburg. From Joburg we see ourselves met by the tour hosts where we then embark on a 7-8 hour bus ride down to our home away from home...Durban. All in all I believe the transit will equate to approximately 36 hours...just dandy!
Houston, Flight DJ2010 is all clear and ready for take off....the final bottle of jim in my hand, the final bottle of jim.......
After a 1 hour train ride, the travel continues with an 8 hour spell through to Singapore. I suspect Changi airport will not know what's hit it, as I have read that there is a new FIFA store open just in time for our arrival.....there goes the savings! With a 5 hour stop over, there will be plenty of time for shopping, relaxing, drinking and I am sure reflection on the next 10 hour flight over to Johannesburg. From Joburg we see ourselves met by the tour hosts where we then embark on a 7-8 hour bus ride down to our home away from home...Durban. All in all I believe the transit will equate to approximately 36 hours...just dandy!
Houston, Flight DJ2010 is all clear and ready for take off....the final bottle of jim in my hand, the final bottle of jim.......
07 June 2010
It's time to go........Socceroo supporters!
Well it's about time. I have to be honest, if I go through one more check list it will be the end of me. What we don't have now we don't have! Although I am hoping more than anything in this world that we do, as the regular response of "we'll just get one over there if we need to" may come back to bite one in the proverbial.
The anticipation levels of course have been at their absolute optimum, and not at all been alleviated by the fact that the fanatics have placed our beloved camping ground on a live web cam over the last week. Every spare minute of the day has been spent watching a web cam of a cricket stadium filled with tents. There has been hardly a soul to be seen, not a bird in the air, no not even a tumbleweed to roll across the field. But for some bewildering reason, fanatics tourists have been drawn to the web cam like a moth to a flame.
The rehearsal over the weekend went reasonably well, however I am not 100 percent positive we have got ourselves close enough to tour fit??? I am sure that all the effort and sacrifice will be made to ensure that we hit the ground running. Actually the more I think about it the weekend didn't exactly ease the pain and depression of the wait. The mighty Capalaba Bulldogs had a slip up, the Lions lost at the death and Sam Stosur was beaten in the French Open final.
It can't all be that bad though can it? Put your hand up if you are off to the World Cup...Launch control let the countdown commence! T-Minus 19 hours and 8 minutes.
The anticipation levels of course have been at their absolute optimum, and not at all been alleviated by the fact that the fanatics have placed our beloved camping ground on a live web cam over the last week. Every spare minute of the day has been spent watching a web cam of a cricket stadium filled with tents. There has been hardly a soul to be seen, not a bird in the air, no not even a tumbleweed to roll across the field. But for some bewildering reason, fanatics tourists have been drawn to the web cam like a moth to a flame.
The rehearsal over the weekend went reasonably well, however I am not 100 percent positive we have got ourselves close enough to tour fit??? I am sure that all the effort and sacrifice will be made to ensure that we hit the ground running. Actually the more I think about it the weekend didn't exactly ease the pain and depression of the wait. The mighty Capalaba Bulldogs had a slip up, the Lions lost at the death and Sam Stosur was beaten in the French Open final.
It can't all be that bad though can it? Put your hand up if you are off to the World Cup...Launch control let the countdown commence! T-Minus 19 hours and 8 minutes.
05 June 2010
Bring on the U.S.
Tonight Australia takes on the might of the USA ranked 14 in the world, in what should be a very good indicator of where the Socceroos are in terms of final preperations for the all important first world cup game against Germany. The media indicates that the full squad should be available in time for the German clash, however Carney, Holman and Emerton remain unavailable until training commences tomorrow. It is believed that one H Kewell will be named on the bench after completing a training match overnight.
It was interesting to watch highlights of training and the Australians working on a regime to combat the might of "jabulani". One could have been forgiven for thinking it was a local junior side utilising Australia's training facility. Yes that's right, maybe work on shape, possibly work on the game plan against Germany....no, teams are having to practice long distance passing because of the most dynamic football ever seen on this planet. Turning more than a Shane Warne leggy, the now famous jabulani has everybody baffled and we will see who has the last laugh in less than a week, when South Africa kicks off the greatest sporting event on this planet.
On a personal note, work is now complete for a 4 week period. Obviously at this point with 3 more sleeps until departure, the travelling party has turned it's focus in providing the greatest support it possibly can to our national team. Clearly the group are leaving no stones unturned to be the best possible supporters and have taken a leaf out of the Socceroos training manual to taper our training for optimum performance on the 13th of this month against German supporters. If it's good enough for the Socceroos, it is good enough for us I figure, so there may well be some fatigue over the next couple of days, however the group is managing to work hard and of course is sustaining a high level of fluid intake. Given tonight we cannot be on the ground in Johannesburg, there will be a practice run at one of our many training venues, with the first rehearsal of the obligatory team tunes a must given the limited knowledge of a few team members.
52 bottles of jim on the wall, 52 bottles of jim......
It was interesting to watch highlights of training and the Australians working on a regime to combat the might of "jabulani". One could have been forgiven for thinking it was a local junior side utilising Australia's training facility. Yes that's right, maybe work on shape, possibly work on the game plan against Germany....no, teams are having to practice long distance passing because of the most dynamic football ever seen on this planet. Turning more than a Shane Warne leggy, the now famous jabulani has everybody baffled and we will see who has the last laugh in less than a week, when South Africa kicks off the greatest sporting event on this planet.
On a personal note, work is now complete for a 4 week period. Obviously at this point with 3 more sleeps until departure, the travelling party has turned it's focus in providing the greatest support it possibly can to our national team. Clearly the group are leaving no stones unturned to be the best possible supporters and have taken a leaf out of the Socceroos training manual to taper our training for optimum performance on the 13th of this month against German supporters. If it's good enough for the Socceroos, it is good enough for us I figure, so there may well be some fatigue over the next couple of days, however the group is managing to work hard and of course is sustaining a high level of fluid intake. Given tonight we cannot be on the ground in Johannesburg, there will be a practice run at one of our many training venues, with the first rehearsal of the obligatory team tunes a must given the limited knowledge of a few team members.
52 bottles of jim on the wall, 52 bottles of jim......
02 June 2010
HQ Durban LIVE
For those who wish to keep up with the action on the ground in Durban...look no further. The fanatics have placed Live Webcams around the Kingsmead cricket ground, home of the official Fanatics football supporters, so family and friends can stay in touch with the...ok well let's just say watch live and be done with it. I certainly can't promise viewers prime time programming!
See it all at http://www.thefanatics.com/live
See it all at http://www.thefanatics.com/live
23 it is!
Finally after almost 4 years of preparation and qualification, Australia has submitted it's final 23 man squad to represent the nation at the 2010 Fifa World Cup. I must admit when it came to the crunch I certainly didn't see the final omission coming. Whilst the writing was on the wall for Galekovic, Lowry, Holland and Oar, the general consensus would not have expected Rhys Williams to receive the final "go directly to jail card".
Since his introduction to the national team, Williams has in my opinion shown more than enough to justify selection within Australia's elite. The one positive from a negative is that we as a football identity have the ability to leave out quality players rather than include players that may be essentially making up the numbers.
I can't help but think that Williams may have had some ongoing injury problems that have influenced the final decision on his inclusion. That said, it would be a an injustice to the 23 man squad to say that none of them deserved to be there. Yes we all have our own opinion on the quality of particular players, but the reality is that there is really only one person that is responsible for the players that influence the Socceroos results and why should we question that man for taking those he believes will best serve him within the structure that he has built.
Pim Verbeek may not go down as the greatest national team coach of all time, but the percentages and results cannot be ignored, no matter how good we think the product is that he has presented and produced for all to see. Although cliche, he has achieved that of which no other has before him, and orchestrated the Socceroos qualification route via Asia for the first time ever in this countries footballing history.
I wish the final 23 well and can't wait to get on the ground to support the team in South Africa next week....
you take one down and pass it around, there'll be 76 bottles of Jim on the wall.....
Since his introduction to the national team, Williams has in my opinion shown more than enough to justify selection within Australia's elite. The one positive from a negative is that we as a football identity have the ability to leave out quality players rather than include players that may be essentially making up the numbers.
I can't help but think that Williams may have had some ongoing injury problems that have influenced the final decision on his inclusion. That said, it would be a an injustice to the 23 man squad to say that none of them deserved to be there. Yes we all have our own opinion on the quality of particular players, but the reality is that there is really only one person that is responsible for the players that influence the Socceroos results and why should we question that man for taking those he believes will best serve him within the structure that he has built.
Pim Verbeek may not go down as the greatest national team coach of all time, but the percentages and results cannot be ignored, no matter how good we think the product is that he has presented and produced for all to see. Although cliche, he has achieved that of which no other has before him, and orchestrated the Socceroos qualification route via Asia for the first time ever in this countries footballing history.
I wish the final 23 well and can't wait to get on the ground to support the team in South Africa next week....
you take one down and pass it around, there'll be 76 bottles of Jim on the wall.....
Australia 1 Denmark 0 Jabulani 10
Whilst the result was not essential, in the words of Paul Trimbole, "the Socceroos seem to be able to find a way to to get a result". Unfortunately though finding a way is not necessarily all that convincing, nor pleasing for the "fluent football" purists. My thoughts were that a lot of positives came out of the game for Australia. The fitness of the squad has most certainly improved since the game against our trans tasman rivals. The quality of parts of play, more so in the second half, were very pleasing to watch. And dare I say it, Brett Holman proved to me he is not just a hard worker.
One very alarming note however was the success of "jabulani", the official match ball of the World Cup. The way it eluded the players feet and managed to race at speed across the end line was amazing. It was better at it than any other ball I have ever seen! In all seriousness though, it was very evident all of the players on the pitch were having issues with speed and accuracy of pass along with the flight of the ball. Have we made the importance of scoring more goals negate the ability for players to be able to actually play pure football?
I can't for one minute believe that the players will not adapt, and as expected most of the negative feedback on jabulani has been provided by the goalkeepers themselves, including one Mr Buffon and our own Mr Schwarzer. If I am Pim Verbeek, I am off to Rebel Sport Johannesburg to buy 50 Jabulani's!....which of course I am sure is already provided to the teams involved. Surely?
It appears there is also one last wait for the final 23 man squad to be announced. Pim is reported to be weighing up injury concerns and we, the Australian public, should be aware of the offical Green and Gold Army at approximately 4pm our time today. All the best to the lads, may the Schwarz be with you!
And so the countdown continues.....86 bottles of Jim on the wall, 86 bottles of Jim......
One very alarming note however was the success of "jabulani", the official match ball of the World Cup. The way it eluded the players feet and managed to race at speed across the end line was amazing. It was better at it than any other ball I have ever seen! In all seriousness though, it was very evident all of the players on the pitch were having issues with speed and accuracy of pass along with the flight of the ball. Have we made the importance of scoring more goals negate the ability for players to be able to actually play pure football?
I can't for one minute believe that the players will not adapt, and as expected most of the negative feedback on jabulani has been provided by the goalkeepers themselves, including one Mr Buffon and our own Mr Schwarzer. If I am Pim Verbeek, I am off to Rebel Sport Johannesburg to buy 50 Jabulani's!....which of course I am sure is already provided to the teams involved. Surely?
It appears there is also one last wait for the final 23 man squad to be announced. Pim is reported to be weighing up injury concerns and we, the Australian public, should be aware of the offical Green and Gold Army at approximately 4pm our time today. All the best to the lads, may the Schwarz be with you!
And so the countdown continues.....86 bottles of Jim on the wall, 86 bottles of Jim......
01 June 2010
All down to one....
....week to go. Noooooooooooooo! On the day that marks 1 week until departure, the Socceroos will test their metal against Denmark. It appears that Verbeek has named a side that appears close to what may be the starting 11 against Germany in Durban.
Mark Schwarzer, Luke Wilkshire, Craig Moore, Lucas Neill, Scott Chipperfield, Vince Grella, Jason Culina, Richard Garcia, Tim Cahill, Mark Bresciano, Josh Kennedy
One would assume that providing he is fit, Brett Emerton may take the place of Garcia on the right hand side of midfield. It has also been well publicised that Harry Kewell may well be utilised in the lone strikers role in place of Josh Kennedy (aka god). All is yet to be revealed, but in the meantime, in only a short few hours after the game tonight, each country is required to submit their final 23 man squads to participate in the Finals stage.
It is evident at this point, (other than a huge change of tact), that Eugene Galekovic, Tommy Oar and James Holland will be omitted from the squad. There has been much debate and personal preference over the those who should and those who shouldn't and of course all of us are the experts. For me, I find it worrying that Dario Vidosic may be left to ponder what might have been. From a very simplistic view point, he is the only "striker" apart from Kennedy to have scored for Australia in some time. You could also argue that he is not seen as a striker, but his absolute versatility is the key. I personally would also like to see Tommy Oar available for a role in the games. Without trying to draw comparison, Kewell was good at such a young age as he was given the flexibility to express himself with flair. Young Tommy I also believe is strong enough to do so late in games when the wind is out of the sail, despite his relative lack of exposure to a higher level of quality opposition. All this said, I am sure there will be very valid reasons for the omissions by the coaching staff. If I were to take a guess, those to miss out unfortunately will be: Galekovic, Lowry, Oar, Carney and Jedinak.
Whilst the fitness taper for the Socceroos will indicate a lack of endurance over the closing stages of tonight's game, I am confident that the supporters as a whole are expecting and almost demanding an improvement in the tactical play from our national team. Yes they are trials, no they don't win you the world cup, but I am sure that the team themselves will be striving for individual team goals and benchmarks throughout the game.
Make sure you tune in to Fox Sports tonight at 10 pm for the live coverage...there is one thing for sure, I certainly will be!
7 days, 1 hour and 55 mins.....
Mark Schwarzer, Luke Wilkshire, Craig Moore, Lucas Neill, Scott Chipperfield, Vince Grella, Jason Culina, Richard Garcia, Tim Cahill, Mark Bresciano, Josh Kennedy
One would assume that providing he is fit, Brett Emerton may take the place of Garcia on the right hand side of midfield. It has also been well publicised that Harry Kewell may well be utilised in the lone strikers role in place of Josh Kennedy (aka god). All is yet to be revealed, but in the meantime, in only a short few hours after the game tonight, each country is required to submit their final 23 man squads to participate in the Finals stage.
It is evident at this point, (other than a huge change of tact), that Eugene Galekovic, Tommy Oar and James Holland will be omitted from the squad. There has been much debate and personal preference over the those who should and those who shouldn't and of course all of us are the experts. For me, I find it worrying that Dario Vidosic may be left to ponder what might have been. From a very simplistic view point, he is the only "striker" apart from Kennedy to have scored for Australia in some time. You could also argue that he is not seen as a striker, but his absolute versatility is the key. I personally would also like to see Tommy Oar available for a role in the games. Without trying to draw comparison, Kewell was good at such a young age as he was given the flexibility to express himself with flair. Young Tommy I also believe is strong enough to do so late in games when the wind is out of the sail, despite his relative lack of exposure to a higher level of quality opposition. All this said, I am sure there will be very valid reasons for the omissions by the coaching staff. If I were to take a guess, those to miss out unfortunately will be: Galekovic, Lowry, Oar, Carney and Jedinak.
Whilst the fitness taper for the Socceroos will indicate a lack of endurance over the closing stages of tonight's game, I am confident that the supporters as a whole are expecting and almost demanding an improvement in the tactical play from our national team. Yes they are trials, no they don't win you the world cup, but I am sure that the team themselves will be striving for individual team goals and benchmarks throughout the game.
Make sure you tune in to Fox Sports tonight at 10 pm for the live coverage...there is one thing for sure, I certainly will be!
7 days, 1 hour and 55 mins.....
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