Actions speak louder than Words

The old, but true saying “Actions speak louder than words”, but never has it been so true at these Olympic Games.  Some say the Australian Olympic team has been a failure during London 2012; others put our decline on the medal tally down to other nations simply improving, and outperforming us on the world stage.

I believe it’s a mixture of both but am regardless of our final medal tally am proud of the vast majority of our Athletes competing.

I thought I would look back at the performances of those athletes who were in the press for all the wrong reasons before the opening ceremony even began.  Three swimmers immediately come to mind, James Magnusson, Kenrick Monk & Nick D’Arcy one track athlete John Steffensen, and Olympic veterans Russell Mark and Natalie Cook.

Not for one moment am I questioning their efforts of the last few years to reach London, but their lead up to the games was hampered in various different ways throughout.

Nick D’Arcy – Swimming bad boy, not only was he found guilty of a caulis assault on fellow swimmer Simon Cowley he declared himself bankrupt to avoid any payment of the $180,000 in civil damages.  D’Arcy was also embroiled in the facebook gun photo scandal with fellow swimmer Kendrick Monk which saw him leave the Olympic village immediately after the completion of his event.

The facebook scandal was blown out of proportion but D’Arcy will never be able to endear himself to the Australian public again.  His results in London were far below par and I doubt we will see him pulling on the Australian swim (white or yellow) cap again.  London Results – 13^th in 200m Butterfly

Kenrick Monk – Also caught up in the unfortunate facebook scandal that shouldn’t have been, but has a past history when he made a false report to police after falling off a skateboard to avoid embarrassment.  London Results – 14^th in 200m Freestyle, 5^th in 4x200m Freestyle relay

James Magnusson – Not a failure by any standards, but his own.  More a victim of circumstance combined with some immaturity shown after his poor relay swim.  Magnusson declared to the world he would go to London, get the gold, and jump on a plane home.  Sounds simple in theory but when you are competing against the world’s best touching home first isn’t as easy as it seems.  Unfairly attacked by some portions of the media after not wanting to comment after his relay team, it was all downhill from there.

I don’t think we paid enough credit to Nathan Adrian who recorded one of the best swims of the meet to beat Magnusson by the barest of margins.  One thing is for sure, this Aussie swimmer will be a little quieter before Rio.  London Results – 11^th 50m Freestyle, SILVER 100m Freestyle, 4 x 100m Freestyle relay 4^th, 4 x 100m Medley relay BRONZE

John Steffensen – The man with the mouth was embroiled in a racism row before the games with Olympic officials that dated back to 2008.  This issue should have been dealt with at the time or soon after, not 4 years after the event.  Steffensen has always been an outspoken athlete, but usually has the talent to back it up.  Over the last few years Steffensen ability on the track hasn’t matched his ability to get some air time with various issues with athletics Australia.  London Results – 11^th 4 x 400m relay

Natalie Cook – Our golden girl from Sydney should have enjoyed her 5^th and final Olympic campaign but couldn’t help enter the ‘Who will carry the flag?’ debate.  Her tantrum was nothing short of bizarre, but her back pedal shortly afterwards was as unconvincing as James Brayshaw’s rowing knowledge.  More time spent working on her game instead of practicing carrying the flag would have come in handy as her and beach volleyball partner Tasmin Hinchley failed to win a match and were bundled out in the preliminary rounds.

Sadly now some Australian fans will remember Cook for her flag antics, and not the great legacy she has created for beach volleyball in Australia.  London Results – Lost all three matches, knocked out at first group stage.

Russell Mark – From an athlete with previous games experience I found his room request quite staggering, yes if given the choice most athletes would want to room with their significant other but when it’s the Olympics in London, not a European vacation.  From that moment on Mark’s hopes of producing a medal were shot.  Shooting is extremely tough mentally, and demands the athlete to focus solely on the competition.  London Results – 20^th in Men’s double trap qualification.

Whilst we will never be able to tell if their distracted lead ups contributed to their below par performances looking at the bulk of the results indicates to us that they have.  Hopefully for those who pull on the green and gold in either Glasgow or Rio will learn from these experiences and have the knowledge that actions do in fact speak louder than words.

Aus vs USA Different sexes, same result likely

Australia faces world super power the United States in both the men’s and women’s basketball competitions over the next 48 hours.  Both are sudden death but at slightly different stages of the tournament.

The Boomers (Men) will be playing with nothing to lose, facing a hotter favourite than Usain Bolt was in the 100m.  Fresh from Paddy Mills buzzer beater over a higher ranked Russian outfit, the boomers should be up for the challenge early, but will need to rely on some kind of Olympic fantasy to realise a win over the much fancied Team USA.

The Boomers have been far from poor in this Olympics, considering their key man Andrew Bogut is back home still suffering the effects of that painful elbow injury and the national league is less popular than Julia Gillard’s carbon tax.  One would expect a quarter final loss to be admiral at this level to Team USA, a team that boast the likes of Durant, James, Kobe and Anthony but not this team, over the years the Boomers have learnt to become fighters and scrappers, and don’t expect them to leave anything out on the court against any opponent, no matter what their reputation.

To put the match in perspective, we are playing against the second best team ever assembled on an Olympic basketball court (Yes, 1992 Dream team were better).  Our players have come from leagues in various parts of the world (Spain, Australia, USA, Greece, Russia & Serbia) and will be relying on that famous Aussie spirit and grit to even come close to the far superior US team.

The Opals (Women) have a far more realistic shot when they play their semi final against the heavily favoured US team.  A shock loss against France bought this game forward by a couple of days but after a dominant fourth quarter performance over China, the Opals should be ready for the challenge.

Much of our hopes will be pinned on the performances of flag bearer Lauren Jackson and young star Liz Cambage.  Both have been in foul trouble at various stages of the tournament, and the US will be looking to exploit this.  The Opals know they can match the US in different aspects on the court, but their depth is far superior to ours.  We will need to keep out best line up on the court for the majority of the game to match it with the US.  We have beaten them in the past, but not on the Olympic stage.

The pre tournament loss of playmaker Penny Taylor through injury is a significant loss, and one I don’t think we can cover.  The Opals don’t seem to have the same spark as previous years, but I think they can come away from London with a bronze medal.

Both games will be watched with anticipation both here and the United States, but I’m afraid both may have the same result.  The Opals should run with the US for much of the 40 minute contest, while I’m afraid as soon as the US put their game faces on, the Boomers will only see dust in their rear view mirror.

Whilst I’m predicting disappointing results for both Australian teams, it is an opportunity to see our teams matched up with the best in the world, isn’t that what the Olympics are about.

These Girls got game

Their campaign couldn’t have suffered a worse start, playing trans-Tasman rivals New Zealand, the Hockeyroos keeper Toni Cronk watched helplessly as the kiwis managed to snare a goal in the first two minutes of play.

New Zealand went onto win the game by that single goal and it looked like any medal hopes had disappeared before the Olympic tournament was barely underway.

Since then the Australian’s have rarely put a stick wrong, a convincing 3-1 win over the higher ranked Germans put their medal hopes back on track, and was followed by a hard fought 1-0 win against the improving Americans.

The girls looked a little disappointed walking off after their next game only beating the lowly ranked South African team 1-0, despite dominating possession and having more shots at goal.  An early goal by Jade Close was enough although there were some late scares in the camp over the last few minutes of the game.

The Hockeyroos now enter their final match with their Olympic destiny in their own hands, a win against pool favourites and a semi final awaits but a loss will see their hard work go unrewarded for yet another Olympic campaign.  One thing in the team’s advantage is that the game is scheduled as the final pool match, so the Hockeyroos will know exactly what is required to reach the medal round.

For those of you who haven’t caught the girls in action as yet, here is three to watch in what will be an enthralling contest.

Toni CRONK (1) – Australia’s goalkeeper, and the Hockeyroos player of the tournament so far.  She will have her work cut out tonight against the skilful Argentines, but will be up to the task.  Might have been caught off guard in the first match, but since then hasn’t put a foot wrong.

Anna FLANAGAN (9) – Australia’s leading scorer in the tournament with 2 goals always looks dangerous going forward.  Flanagan uses her pace to her advantage, but is also solid in defence.  Keep an eye out for Anna in front of goal, particularly if we find ourselves down in the early stages of the game.

Emily SMITH (26) – A little disappointing so far in London, but will be wanting to shine in Australia’s final pool game.  So often the Hockeyroos best avenue to start an attack Smith relies on her close stick work.  At times a fiery customer and definitely someone the Argentines must look out for.

The Australians must start well, and control the match from the midfield.  At times we have looked slower that our opponents and Argentina won’t be any different.  It’s won’t be easy for the girls, but nothing is at the Olympics.

A win will see the medal campaign continue, but a loss may even see the girls finish as low as fourth.  Expect a cut throat atmosphere with the Hockeyroos leaving nothing on the pitch.

Set your alarm clocks tomorrow morning at the action kicks off at 6:05am (AEST) and support an Australian team with such a rich Olympic tradition.  The game will be shown on Foxtel channel London 2.

The Twelve year itch

According to folklore relationships tend to struggle after seven years, but what about host nations at the Olympic Games?

Millions of dollars are poured into sports programs in the build up to hosting the games, athletes are generously funded, state of the art sporting facilities are built and Countries start taking interest in sports they previously have never heard of.

But what happens after the 16 day party, when the world spotlight dims on those ‘former hosts of the games’.  Host Countries tend to dominate medal counts, athlete numbers are bolstered, crowd support is at a premium, and the home team tend to perform out of their skin.

Four years later the funding is still flowing, interest in the various Olympic sports is still high, and those heroes from the previous games are still performing at the peak of their powers.  Eight years later most of those who competed on home soil are mostly retired, those still competing have lost some of their sparkle, and the interest from parties funding athletes dreams has largely dried up.

So where does that bring us? 12 years ago Sydney hosted ‘The Friendly games’, Australia was beamed into lounge rooms around the World, and Freeman, Thorpe, Hackett and O’Neil were household names.

12 years on and it’s fair to say we are struggling, as a nation we maybe expect too much from our athletes at times, but the Australian public have acclimatised to us punching above our weight and matching it with the super powers of the world.

Many of our Sydney heroes have now retired, government funding has been slashed, and youngsters who grew up watching a home Olympics have moved onto different sports.  Those athletes who dominated are now in the twilight of their careers, and making the team is as bigger challenge as winning a shiny medal on home soil.

Don’t believe me about the 12 year itch, look at the numbers (Starting from 1988, due to US/USSR boycotts in 1980 & 1984.)

South Korea

	Gold	Silver	Bronze
Hosts	12	10	11
12 years on	8	10	10
Difference	-4	0	-1

 

Spain

	Gold	Silver	Bronze
Hosts	13	7	2
12 years on	3	11	5
Difference	-10	+4	+3

 

United States

	Gold	Silver	Bronze
Hosts	44	32	25
12 years on	36	38	36
Difference	-8	+6	+9

 

You can see from these tables that although the minor medals increase, the quality of performance drops off significantly.  This doesn’t read well for the Australian team, and watching the first three days of action proves my theory.  Hopefully I’m wrong, but it seems the British will dominate proceedings.  Let’s just hope the 12 year itch is still around in 2024.

In Asia football, J comes before A

So it’s going to be harder than we thought, but it’s the final stage of a World cup qualification campaign.  Brazil 2014 is a tough challenge for the Socceroos, and now a nation realises how tough it can be.

We are not the same talented squad that saw an easier path to Germany or South Africa, we have youth coming through but our talent stocks are somewhat lower than our FIFA ranking would have us believe.  We have recently dropped three spots to 24, but it’s my belief that that the ranking system is floored, and we are still reaping the benefits from our more talented squads in the past.  A ranking in the mid 30’s would be more comparable to our current squad.

The oppressive heat in Oman was another factor in the result.  Playing at 42c, kicking off at 5pm doesn’t make sense for any sport in the World, let alone football.  FIFA have to address this issue, but have now set a very dangerous precedent.  Whilst it’s a dangerous environment to play is extreme heat, the group stage has started, and games should be played under similar conditions.

Tuesday night will be a key moment of our campaign.  Japan has started in a blaze of glory, winning both games convincingly and having a +9 goal difference.  The blue samurai come to Brisbane full of confidence, and knowing that a victory against the Socceroos could almost assure them of a plane ticket to Brazil.

So why does it appear that Japan are light years in front of the Socceroos at the moment, only one spot separates them in the FIFA rankings, but on current form Japan are looking the goods.  Japan is firing on all cylinders, and the Socceroos are barely getting out of second gear.  You only have to look at the domestic structure of football in each country.  The J-League is a very successful, financial league, and is the giant of Asian football.  Patrons are filing through the turnstiles, clubs are financially viable, and the standard of football is very impressive.

Have a look over your shoulder at the A-League and currently the rest of Asia doesn’t have to be too concerned.  Poor management, club infighting, new clubs and licence hand backs affect every level of football in Australia.  I have the feeling that we have the 10 team structure that will currently have will be around for years to come, and is a must for our 2018 qualification.

I am confident we will be on the plane with Japan to Brazil.  A shaky start from our Socceroos heroes but even if we lose against Japan on Tuesday night, we are still on track.  Our squad isn’t our strongest, but is far greater than Iraq, Jordan and Oman and that is what matters.  For all the people saying our squad is too old, show me a better option than Schwarzer, Ognenovski or Kewell.

We must qualify for the future of the game at a domestic level in Australia

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Our next three games

June 12 v JAPAN (home)

September 11 v JORDAN (away)

October 16 v IRAQ (away)

Socceroos Stage One – Denmark, Oman & Japan

With a friendly Danish encounter, and the start to the final stage of World Cup qualifying Holger Osieck announced his squad.  Whilst results are not do or die at this stage of the campaign most fans would expect at least four points from the first two games.  Brazil2014 is a very important tournament for the Socceroos, and football in Australia.  Qualification is not an option, but a necessity for the growth of football in this Country.

Only Brett Emerton is a surprise omission, with Osieck correctly choosing the most talented squad available.  I like the look of the squad and know that they can perform at the highest level for Australia.

With only 24 days until our qualification campaign starts here is the 26 man squad announced today.

Goalkeepers

Player: Mark Schwarzer

Club: Fulham (England)

Caps: 95

@thehardsword says: Australian number one keeper.  Surely in his final national campaign, and will be the glue that holds the defence together.  Will be heavily tested against Japan

 

Player: Adam Federici

Club: Reading (England)

Caps: 6

@thehardsword says: One of the mainstays of Reading’s promotion campaign. Expect his to watch from the sidelines, but a competent replacement for Schwarzer.  May get a half against Denmark.

 

Player: Nathan Coe

Club: SonderjyskE (Denmark)

Caps: 3

@thehardsword says: Surprise selection, thought Mitch Langerak would get the nod but has been in good form for his club side.

 

The Rest

Player: Mark Bresciano

Club:  Al Nasr (UAE)

Caps: 57 (11 goals)

@thehardsword says: Epitomisers the heart and soul of the Socceroos squad, ageing hard work midfielder with a never say die attitude.  Unfortunately hasn’t got the same pace as the 2010 campaign and should be used as an impact player off the bench.

 

Player: Alex Brosque

Club: Shimizu S-Pulse (Japan)

Caps: 11 (5 goals)

@thehardsword says: A KEY player for the Asian campaign.  Has a great gift for finding the back of the net, and uses his nous well.  I predict he will be out top scorer of our Asian campaign.

 

Player: Tim Cahill

Club: Everton (England)

Caps: 55 (24 goals)

@thehardsword says: Our best known player is coming off a somewhat average year form wise at Everton, but will always produce the goods for his Country.  The Japanese nemeses will no doubt get under their skin, but Holger and all Australian’s will be hoping Cahill doesn’t go too far.

 

Player: David Carney

Club: Bunyodkor (Ukraine)

Caps: 39 (6 goals)

@thehardsword says: A much maligned player, but a very important member of our squad.  Carney’s pace will be at the heart of our attacks, but he can also be caught out at the defensive end of the park.  We are a better team when Carney is on the team sheet.

 

Player: Chris Herd

Club: Aston Villa (England)

Caps: Yet to make debut

@thehardsword says: A rare shining light in a horrid Villa season.  Will be close to make his debut in one of the three games, but also must be patient when he joins the quality squad.  Could become an impact player when the game is there to be won.

 

Player: Brett Holman

Club: soon to be joining Aston Villa (England)

Caps: 53 (8 goals)

@thehardsword says: The man I dubbed the ‘X factor’ during a friendly against New Zealand in 2010.  A quality player who will only gain more exposure as he plays in England.  A very important player and can lift when others are not performing on the day.

 

Player: Mile Jedinak

Club: Crystal Palace (England)

Caps: 32 (3 goals)

@thehardsword says: Really must step up to the plate, performance wise.  Has the ability to become a Socceroos regular, but now reaching that point of his career where he cannot be picked on potential.  Must play well to be on the plane to Brazil.

 

Player: Joshua Kennedy

Club: Nagoya Grampus (Japan)

Caps: 29 (15 goals)

@thehardsword says: Must use his height to dominate small Asian defences.  His goal scoring record speaks for itself, and will be pivotal in the group stage.  Needs to improve his game against better opposition, but we will address that closer to 2014.

 

Player: Harry Kewell

Club: Melbourne Victory (Australia)

Caps: 56 (17 goals)

@thehardsword says: In his final World Cup campaign, Harry always stands and delivers for his beloved green and gold.  Those who witnessed his performance against Saudi Arabia cannot question his passion for the shirt.  Could be restricted to 60-70 minute performances at international level, but will be a trump card for Holger.

 

Player: Neil Kilkenny

Club: Bristol (England)

Caps: 13

@thehardsword says: A back up midfielder, who will be reliant on injury or good fortune to add to his 13 caps.

 

Player: Robbie Kruse

Club: Fortuna Dusseldorf (Germany)

Caps: 14 (2 goals)

@thehardsword says: Will be trying to force himself on the team sheet in front of Kennedy and Brosque.  Lack of matches has will cost him early in the campaign, but his pace is a handy addition when bought on with 10-15 to play.

 

Player: Matt McKay

Club: Busan IPark (South Korea)

Caps: 23

@thehardsword says: A nightmare move to Rangers has slowed McKay’s career down.  Has shown the ability in a Socceroos jersey, and is a great option for Holger off the bench.

 

Player: Mark Milligan

Club: JEF United Chiba (Japan)

Caps: 13 (1 goal)

@thehardsword says: Another of the legion of players with Asian experience.  Is a favourite of Holgers, and has played a controlling role very well.  Has the possibility to be a key playmaker in Australia’s campaign.

 

Player: Lucas Neill

Club: Al Jazira (UAE)

Caps: 80

@thehardsword says: Is the rock of the Australian defence.  Maybe not as suited to playing in Asia due to his lack of pace, but his football knowledge and leadership ensures he is always first on the team sheet.  Still after his first Socceroos goal.

 

Player: Jade North

Club: Consadole Sapporo (Japan)

Caps: 34

@thehardsword says: Just when you thought the career of North was over, he had been handed a lifeline.  Surely a backup for captain Neill, and Ognenovski in our most fragile position, centre back.  Hopefully we will not need to call upon his services during our campaign.

 

Player: Sasa Ognenovski

Club: Seongnam (South Korea)

Caps: 13 (1 goal)

@thehardsword says: Must perform well early on the campaign to keep his World Cup fairytale alive.  Works well with Neill, and also creates a giant presence in the box during set plays.

 

Player: Nikita Rukavytsa

Club: Hertha BSC (Germany)

Caps: 6

@thehardsword says: The outer favour striker has been bought back in from selection wilderness by Holger.  Known for his electric pace Nikita must improve his overall game to increase his worth to the National team.  Gives Holger an option from the bench when opposition defences start to get heavy legs.

 

Player: Matt Spiranovic

Club: Urawa Reds (Japan)

Caps: 13

@thehardsword says: The backup Centre back is an adequate replacement should Sasa or Lucas struggle early in the campaign.  Has a great future ahead of him, but could also feature prominently in our Brazil 2014 campaign.

 

Player: Archie Thompson

Club: Melbourne Victory (Australia)

Caps: 34 (21 goals)

@thehardsword says: Most will say a surprise selection, but given his last appearance in a Socceroos strip, a deserved one.  Father time has caught up with Archie in his domestic career, but still he manages that extra level for International appearances.  An uphill battle to be on the plane to Sao Paulo but he has thrown his hat into the selection mix.

 

Player: Carl Valeri

Club: Sassuolo (Italy)

Caps: 45 (1 goal)

@thehardsword says: An important cog in our midfield.  Valeri mostly goes unnoticed for his defensive hard work, as he isn’t as flashy as others in the squad.

 

Player: Luke Wilkshire

Club: Dynamo Moscow

Caps: 66 (6 goals)

@thehardsword says: Has made the right back spot his own over the last few years.  A creative outlet, but an extremely good defensive player.  I wouldn’t expect his recent incident in Russia will distract the player from Australian duties.

 

Player: Rhys Williams

Club: Middlesbrough

Caps: 9

@thehardsword says: A ‘spare parts’ player who gives Holger extra options when opting to play Williams.  Choosing Wales over Australia will ensure he sees plenty of big International tournaments and will be a key player in our 2018 campaign.

 

Player: Michael Zullo

Club: Utrecht (Netherlands)

Caps: 9

@thehardsword says: Another player for the future, but don’t be surprised if you see ‘Zullo’ on the team sheet.  The accomplished youngster will be awaiting any slip up from Carney to take his Socceroos chance.

Roaring all the way to the bank

When Brisbane Roar secured their second consecutive A-League bean counters would have been calling for the cognac and cigars.  The centrepiece will be played in front of 50,000 adoring fans in one of the best football stadiums in the Country.  This is not taking a swipe at Central Coast fans, but a disappointing 7572 fans turned up for a do or die Grand Final qualifier at Bluetongue stadium last week.

Football fans all over the country will remember the 2010/11 grand final for a few reasons, mainly the astonishing comeback from the never say die Brisbane Roar, but the atmosphere created by the 50,000+ crowd who witnessed history that day.  Another bumper crowd will not only be a fantastic advertisement for the game, but will give the FFA some much needed finances after the beating the accountants have taken this year.

Over the last few months the A-League has been battered from just about anyone, whether the criticism has been fairly warranted or not, the FFA are the only thing in Australia that is less popular than the Queensland Labour party.  This Sunday presents the FFA with an opportunity to close the chapter on a season best forgotten for the most part, finishing on the best possible note; A cracker of a Grand Final played in front of a sold out crowd.

Many fans, particularly those in Western Sydney are already looking forward to Season 8, but the book has not closed on Season 7 just yet.

Both Brisbane Roar and Perth Glory are playing free flowing attacking football at the moment, and this game is a stand out for the neutral.  Fans all over Australia should be looking forward to this game, and watching a shootout between the best two scorers in erratic livewire Besart Berisha and classy Kiwi Shane Smeltz.  This Sunday supporters will have experience a rollercoaster of emotions, but the match will be a delight for the neutral.  Something we couldn’t say when watching the dour defences of Graham Arnold’s Central Coast Mariners.

Ideally back in October the FFA would have preferred the Kewell v Emerton match up throughout Grand final week, but will happily cash in their chips, and watch their Fox Sports ratings when Brisbane meet Perth on Sunday.

Look out for my preview over the next few days and follow me on twitter @thehardsword or check out thehardsword facebook page.

My Ten Commandments for the 2012/13 A-League Fixture

Whilst I don’t think I need to grow a beard, climb a mountain and call myself Moses, I do have a few commandments that the FFA should follow when drawing up the 2012/13 A-League fixture.

1.       Use the Big City derbies wisely

For the first time we have cross time rivals in Melbourne and Sydney.  The Melbourne Derby is now a ‘must do’ on the Melbourne sporting calendar and the Sydney Derby will play a major role in the success of the @NewSydneyClub.  The A-League now has six key dates in their two biggest cities and need to use this wisely.  One key game every 3-4 weeks will keep the A-League in the media attention.

2.       Public Holidays are your friend

Last year the A-League tried ‘Big Wednesday’.  This was a success for both fans and Foxtel subscribers all over the Country.  In 2013 January 26^th falls on a Saturday and the FFA need to take advantage of this.  I’m not sure if you go with five games all on the one day but I would like to see Victory v Sydney, @NewSydneyClub v Heart, and Perth v Adelaide (in Perth) all played on our national public holiday.  Brisbane could play Central Coast on the night before, and Wellington v Newcastle as a standalone game on the Sunday.  Melbourne Heart should play host to a Melbourne Cup eve match (Monday night) to take advantage of the influx of people who either visit the city or take advantage of the four day weekend.

3.       Thursday Night Opener

There will be much fanfare surrounding the @NewSydneyClub so let’s kick off the season with them.  We should take something from the AFL that they do so well, the Richmond v Carlton season opener schedule.  I think it would be a mistake to use a ‘Sydney derby’ trump card so early, but a game opposing the new team to Newcastle would be perfect.  Not only would it create buzz around the city buy would give Newcastle fans some much needed exposure from the FFA

4.       One midweek home game for all

Fans vote with their feet, and not warmed to midweek kickoffs.  Our timeframe and television commitments mean that we need to play at least two full rounds during the week so let’s spread the burden.  Every club should play one midweek home game to spread the weaker attendances throughout the league.  Who knows maybe this could present a corporate opportunity or a member ‘bring a friend’ night.

5.       Consistent game times for the fans

One of my major gripes with the A-League is their varied time slots fans/members have to work with.  If we give fans a more regular kickoff time most weeks I am convinced that you will see a rise in attendances and membership numbers.  Let’s be smarter about our scheduling and copy things that work in other sports.  AFL fans tend to be drawn to Friday night football, whereas NRL fans prefer Saturday nights.  Why don’t we look at this more wisely and use it to grow our game.  Friday nights could see Adelaide, Perth, and Heart home matches.  Saturday evening (around 5pm) could be a family friendly kickoff for Newcastle/Central Coast, and Saturday nights would see Victory, and the two Sydney clubs share the spotlight.  Brisbane and Wellington would be given the bulk of the Sunday games.  As the two biggest supported clubs Victory and Sydney would be given the prime time Saturday night slot.

6.       One Melbourne, One Sydney match every week

Yes you may be coming to the conclusion that I am pro Sydney/Melbourne, but these are the two biggest markets.  One game every week would establish a firmer market share in both these cities and continue to keep the league on the back pages (or as close as possible).  This would also become more attractive for a bigger TV deal with Foxtel, or dare I say it a free to air network.

7.       Keep it at 27 games, and put the FFA Cup on Ice

As much as I would love an FA Cup style competition, next season isn’t the time to introduce it.  Next season is about the successful introduction of the @NewSydneyclub and the stability of every club in the A-League.  Playing every club three times provides for some irregular fixturing, but it sure beats the alternative that other football codes are faced with.  All clubs play each other and even amount of times and that is one salvaging feature about the current fixture.  18 games (play twice) doesn’t provide clubs with enough income opportunities, and a 36 game (play four) fixture would create monotony and boredom for everyone except those very loyal fans.

8.       Use NYL games as curtain raisers

Now that every team has a youth team (except Wellington) we should be playing these games before the main game.  The AIS team could replace Wellington for the purpose of the NYL schedule, and the younger players would get the opportunity to play on the more prestigious grounds, and the fans would also be able to see younger players progressing through or an old favourite coming back from injury.

9.       Include a ‘Grassroots Round’

The A-League and FFA continue to excel in promoting grassroots football and the local clubs around the area but need to get more back from this.  Why not sell this message to the Australian sporting public and have a specific round for Grassroots football.  This would generate positive publicity for the game and may increase the involvement with local clubs.  I know all clubs perform outstandingly when it comes to grassroots level; this round would merely become a branded week to sell the A-League message to those who are involved in football at every level in Australia and New Zealand.

10.   Ask the fans what they want

With Billionaire owners retreating quicker than the French during a war, maybe it’s time to for the powers that be ask those stakeholders who will always be there, the fans.  This may seem an unusual step for a national sporting organisation but let’s face it, the A-League needs bums on seats.  I have 10 ideas here, and they might be rubbish, but the league may receive a few great ideas from some fans out there.  I understand you can’t please everyone and TV deals and Corporate sponsors keep the game going, but who knows what you might uncover if you simply ask.

Western Sydney – It’s all in the TIMing

 

They say timing is everything in life, right place, right time etc you know how it goes.  Unfortunately for the FFA the Gold Coast crisis has happened 12 or 24 months too early, and only one year after the sad demise of the North Queensland Fury.

As Clive Palmer and the FFA have discovered the Gold Coast is not that Gold.  Low attendance records, next to no community engagement and a Billionaire owner believing his ego is bigger than the game all leads to a spectacular failure.

Everyone knows the problems, but what are the solutions?

The FFA and A-League need to address the elephant in the room, Western Sydney.  Instead of trying to grow the game in every corner of this vast Country, we need to establish a team in one of football’s heartland, and most populous areas.  Yes, Sydney Rovers failed to get off the ground, but Western Sydney is the best solution for the game, and we must get in before Andrew Demitriou and the AFL gain more territory in this region.

The unsuccessful rovers bid went after the wrong man, sure Lucas Neill is the Socceroos captain, and well respected in the football community but he is not the answer.   It is said that “Offence sells tickets, defence wins championships”, and the A-League need bums on seats in the Sydney area.

Frank Lowy and the FFA need to invest in the man that is a scoring machine for the Socceroos, Tim Cahill.  This would take an almighty effort on everyone’s behalf, with Cahill still enjoying his time at Everton and seemingly over his scoring drought.  As I said earlier, everything is about timing and a return to Australia for Tim Cahill would be more realistic and achievable in 2014/15.

All Australian’s identify with Tim Cahill; he is humble, loyal and naturally engages with the general public.  Cahill is known throughout the nation, even by those who don’t follow football but remember his heroics against Japan in the World Cup.  Tim is a profound goal scorer, and if the FFA want inches in the paper, or minutes on free to air television Tim Cahill is the solution to the problem that is Western Sydney.

Whatever happens in the next few months/years in the football community in Australia, those running the game must remember one thing; The Fans.

The Usual Suspects

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A rain soaked Melbourne played host to Australia’s final stage 3 Asian qualifier against the once powerful Saudi Arabia. Frank Rijkaard’s Saudi Arabian team needed a win to ensure the Green Falcons reach the final stages of qualification.

In a week of local turmoil over 24,000 Melbournians braved the elements, a midweek fixture, and a late kickoff to witness a master class from Melbourne Victory’s Harry Kewell. A poor first half from the local boys had those in the away corner buzzing. Poor defending, and a cracking goal allowed Saudi Arabia to take a 2-1 lead into the break.

The coaching nous of Holger Osieck to bring on local boy Archie Thompson for Troisi was the clear turning point of the contest. Within 10 seconds of Thompsons arrival Lucas Neill managed to put the ball in the back of the net for his beloved Socceroos. Unluckily for Neill this was incorrectly ruled offside.

The game was then turned on its head when the Socceroos scored THREE goals in three minutes, a feat we grew accustomed to when playing in the Oceania confederation. From then on it was plain sailing for the Australian outfit that weren’t challenged from then on.

Some good signs for a nation that needed this result after the week that football has endured. Alex Brosque was outstanding up front, but other than that it was the usual suspects who performed well at AAMI Park.

Final Score – Australia 4 defeated Saudi Arabia 2 (Half time 1-2)

The GOALS

Alex BROSQUE (43’, 75’) Harry KEWELL (73’) Brett EMERTON (76’)

Rate the Roos

Mark SCHWARZER 6 – Solid but will be disappointed he was beaten at his near post.

Lucas NEILL 6 – Wrongly ruled offside for his debut goal. Was good, without being great.

Matthew SPIRANOVIC 4 –Played out of position, and it showed. Will need to improve on tonight

Jade NORTH 4 Socceroos ambitions went south tonight, will get another chance though

Sasa OGNENOVSKI 6 – Solid at the back. Gave what was expected from the no fuss defender.

Brett EMERTON 7 – Scored a lucky goal, and put in yet another great Socceroos shift

Mark MILLIGAN 6 – Played his role well tonight, looking forward to seeing him at this level again.

Harry KEWELL 8 – If this is what Harry is capable of Victory fans get your 2012/13 memberships now.

James TROISI 6 – Played well before being subbed for match turner Archie Thompson

Alex BROSQUE 9 – Two goals, and an assist. Could be a key player in our World Cup hopes.. Outstanding (@thehardsword MOM)

Marco BRESCIANO 8 – Looked slow at the start, but set up first goal, and showed he belonged at this level again. Welcome back Marco

Archie THOMPSON 8 – His energy and pace changed the game. Well played Holger, umm I mean Archie

David CARNEY 6 – A cameo all the way from Uzbekistan. Showed promise, but still far too attacking

Nick CARLE – Didn’t spend enough time on the pitch to rate.

Holger OSIECK 8 – Made the Archie sub at a great stage, strange didn’t give someone other than Carle a run.

The REFEREE – Started nervously, and Australia must remember we are more physical than most others in Asia. Wasn’t helped by his linesmen and failed to take control at times.

The CROWD – Full credit to the Saudi’s they were brilliant, until shell shocked in the 76^th minute. The home crowd seemed very quiet with the active area, not very active. Found our voice late in the night, but we seem to far polite and need to get club fan groups more involved.

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Where to now

Whilst it’s not panic stations, it’s not beer and skittles either. Emerton, Bresciano, and Kewell will all be mid 30’s in Brazil, and Schwarzer will be pushing 40.

We need to realise we are not there yet, and hope we get a favourable draw in a confederation that is rapidly improving. Non qualification will set the A-League back much further than the Gold Coast saga, and the FFA need to pour all available resources into the effort.

There was no Cahill, Kennedy, or many others tonight, so the Socceroo’s will only be stronger in the next stage of qualification.

Whilst I am very happy with what I have seen tonight, I have not googled flights to Brazil in 2014 just yet