Stand up for the Socceroos

Update - July 03, 2006
Its match day, Australia vs Italy and we were off to Kaiserslautern to watch the game. After a nightmare over crowded, hot and sweaty train ride, that took about 3.5 hours we made it to Kaiserslautern, or K-town as its more affectionately known. We actually came out here the day before to collect our match tickets so were pretty familiar with the journey, but it was still terrible.

Collecting our tickets the day before in Gelsenkirchen. We had the chance to check out the small Gelsenkirchen fan fest and had pics with some statues.

Once we arrived, we had to make our way through the throng of fellow Aussie and Italian supporters. It seemed like every man and his dog was out this day.

Perched high atop overlooking K-town was Fritz-Walter stadium. So once we passed the security checkpoints was had to make a 10 minute climb upto the stadium.

We finally made it to the top and as the stadium beckoned, we paused to reflect on where we were and that the Socceroo's were actually playing for a spot in the quarter-finals at the World Cup.

Having gotten our tickets through the FFA, we were right in the middle of the Aussie supporters. There was an awesome atmosphere and everyone was up for the game.


The game started and although the Italians had some early chances, we survived and soon settled down. We looked pretty comfortable on the ball and the defence grew more confident and solid as the match wore on. At half time we went in even and spirits were high, full of song and voice we cheered on through the second half, when Materazzi was sent off (harshly so) we started to press and pretty much took control. As the end of 90 minutes drew near, we started to anticipate getting the final goal in extra time that would send us through. Then the unthinkable, I don't know what Bresciano was doing when he let the ball bounce and then didn't stop the man (professional foul or not he should have). Grosso cut inside, moved into the box, Neil slid in and down he went. It happened at the other end of the pitch so we didn't get a good view, but we just knew it was dodgy, of course we didn't get to see a replay in the stadium so we weren't 100% sure how it happened. When the penalty went in, I slumped back into my seat and felt ill.
I was moved when the team came and acknowledged the aussie supporters. Even in defeat we were winners.

After such a sad and draining experience we almost decided not to head out the next day to see Brazil.