[Rant]

Well, the whole of Australia is quite obviously pissed at the moment... not so much at the fact that we lost the game (i was completely willing to accept defeat), but the way we lost!!! so much hope and anticipation that we had a real chance for victory, and then it was taken away in the final few seconds... absolute heartbreak.

Now, i know that Australia failed to convert any of the chances we had, because Italy defended so dam well... playing against ten men is of no advangtage if they are one of the best defensive sides in the world (and Australia are not the best at converting possesion into goals)...

Fact: EVERY game Australia has played at this world cup has been significantly affected by the ref, not always to the point where we lost the match, but still greatly affecting the game... its just so frustrating. now i know that everyones saying, well italy didnt deserve the player sent off, and i prob agree, but it still feels like crap losing it in the last few seconds (its like the ref couldnt be bothered to ref for an extra 30 min, so he found a way out of it).

The comments made by the coaches of Japan and Brazil leading up to the world cup influenced the minds of all the referees about Australia, causing us to be affected by one of the highest foul counts of all 32 teams... if only we could dive as well as italy (and others), maybe we would have recieved more...

Still, very proud of the Aussies, and i hope people respect us as a football playing nation from now on.

[/Rant]