But Australia was first up against Germany. It was after Germany put 4 past both England and Argentina, that you realise how strong Germany were.

Japan's coach has the incentive to increase depth; the players have the incentive to be selected for the WC, specially those that are marginal. Also, they are a proud team.

JBos has had a crap season regarding injury. Farrell has been injured for a long time since he left Oz. I think those two would be great to compete for the LB with the added benefit that JBos is quite versatile so he can play further up on the left but if need be can also play on the right.

IIRC when Bos was fit & available, Bos was first choice. AFAIK Farrel has not been capped yet.

I can sympathise with the sentiments.

Let's not forget that Taggart was replaced by Borello. So I am expecting Vellupilay and Borello to start and Duke on teh bench.

If the world was fair the Asian confederation would be split in two: west & east, with the east confederation swallowing Oceania. The South American confederation would have reduced number of spots as they have the least number of countries with Africa and the two Asian confederations gaining...

Correct me if I'm wrong but wasn't Stephen Conroy appointed CEO of APL whilst remaining chair of FA? Given that the APL would have a broadcast contract in place, why would the FA interfere with legal obligations?

Just an excuse.

When Metcalfe was at MC he never played at RWB - either RW or midfield on the right side. Atkinson or Talbot were RWB. AFAIK at St Pauli he has always played at RW.

Ugly enough that it may not warrant watching.

Are you sure? I did not think that NZ teams could compete in the AFC. So the highest ranking Australian team would then compete. Or maybe the Australia Cup winner?

I think part of the outrage is for those who watched the U20 Asian Cup, they would have noticed a far more skilful set of players than the U23 who failed to qualify for the Olympics and in some ways are more technically capable than some of the senior players. Further, Poppas comments have come...

Now that was sporting entertainment.

Tilio himself has said that he needs to work his way back to form after a long lay off. Given Poppa's comment about Arzani earlier this year, I don't think anything has changed, no goals and few assists. Contrast that to Irankunda who has been named player of the month in the Swiss league...

I can't believe that Arzani and Tilio got selected ahead of Irankunda. Davidson? Had one good world cup and that is it. Borello and Taggart? I could cope with one but no Botic? I wasn't expecting much from Poppa but even that was too much to expect from Poppa.

No more seagulls at AAMI...please.

Yes they did. And then through lack of fan engagement the fans keep drifting off.

Just wondering what would be the consequences of not qualifying.

I suspect that given the financial situation and the success shown by other clubs plus their own young players, the visa imports will decrease in quantity and quality. A bit like MC, they got German Ferreyra on a free transfer and according to Transfermarkt, has often been without a club and he...