Aussies Abroad: Month in Review - August 2013

Hello All 

 Compiled by Damian Davies 

A lot to reflect on in August with most of the European leagues kicking off the 2013/14 season.  That also means the big club competitions of UEFA Europa League and Champions League have commenced.  A busy period for transfers with the window just shutting. A very successful few months at international level as we start the countdown to Brazil.

Transfers:-  a huge amount of movement as to be expected at this time of year.  A mixed bag in terms of destinations, but India has become a popular destination and we have seen a few players return to the Swiss market after the Chipperfield era. A few loan deals have also been negotiated.  Plenty more to come as uncontracted players search for a home.  With HAL squads filling up quickly, will be interesting to see who returns to Australian shores.  

Additions/changes to player database:

Panos Armenakas (5 Aug 1998) - transferred to Watford, England

Scott Baginski (28 Feb 1983) - transferred from Saraburi to Kaya FC, Philippines

Michael Baird (1 Aug 1983) - transferred to Universitatea Craiova, Romania

David Carney (30 Nov 1983) - transferred to New York Red Bull, USA

Anthony Carter (31 Aug 1994) - transferred from CFR Cluj II to CFR Cluj, Romania

James Demetriou (14 Aug 1995) - transferred from Sydney Olympic to Nottingham Forest, England

Christian Esposito (23 Jul 1990) - transferred from ACD Valle d'Aosta to FBC Savona, Italy 

Iain Fyfe (3 Apr 1982) - transferred from Adelaide Reds to Mes Kerman, Iran

Apostolis Giannou (25 Jan 1990) - transferred from PAOK to Panionios Athens, Greece

Ryan Go (28 Sep 1995) - transferred to Feyenoord, Netherlands

Max Haubus (8 Mar 1993) - transferred from Atherton LR to Tus Koblenz, Germany

Bradden Inman (10 Dec 1991) - transferred from Newcastle United to Crewe Alexandria, England

Jackson Irvine (7 Mar 1993) - loan from Celtic to Kilmarnock, Scotland

Calvin Lovric (12 Sep 1992) - loan from Parma to Hercules Alicante, Spain

James Meyer (28 May 1986) - transferred from Brisbane Roar to Pune FC, India

Tomislav Mrcela (1 Oct 1990) - transferred to NK Hrvatski Dragovoljac, Croatia

Lucas Neill (9 Mar 1978) - transferred from Sydney FC to Omiya Ardija, Japan

Sean Rooney (1 Mar 1989) - transferred from Blacktown City to Bengaluru, India

Nikita Rukavytsya (22 Jun 1987) - loan from Mainz to FSV Frankfurt, Germany

Sebastian Usai (28 Feb 1990) - transferred from Blackburn to AFC United, Sweden

Dario Vidosic (8 Apr 1987) - transferred from Adelaide Reds to FC Sion, Switzerland

Frane Vladislavic (9 Jan 1994) - loan from Hajduk Split to NK Dugopolje, Croatia

Ivan Vujica (20 Apr 1997) - transferred from NK Lokomotiva Zagreb to GNK Dinamo Zagreb, Croatia

Ryan Williams (28 Oct 1993) - loan from Fulham to Oxford United, England 

Removed from player database: 

Patrick Antelmi (Leeds United) - released, uncontracted

Alex Baird (Dundee) - transferred to Stockport Sports FC, England (non-league)

Jacob Borg (Sliema Wanderers) - appeared for Malta national team, congratulations

Matt Byrne (FK Teleoptik Zemun) - transferred to Olympic FC, Qld

Daniel Caccamo (Kaposvari Rakoczi) - released, uncontracted

Matthew Fletcher (Sheffield Wednesday) - released, uncontracted

Alex Gardikiotis (Blackpool) - transferred to MIFA, UK

Dean Gardikiotis (Blackpool) - transferred to MIFA, UK

Andreas Govas (AEL Kallonis) - released, uncontracted

Liam Jacob (Oldham Athletic) - released, uncontracted

Patrick Kisorbo (Ipswich Town) - released, uncontracted

Billy Konstantinidis (Ethnikos Gazoros) - released, uncontracted

Daniel Leach (Eastbourne Borough) - released, uncontracted

Matthew McKay (Changchun Yatai) - transferred to Brisbane Roar

Brent McGrath (Brondby) - released, uncontracted

Ben McNamara (Nuneaton Town FC) - released, uncontracted

Ante Rozic (Suphanburi FC) - released, uncontracted

Michael Rutherford (Amicale) - transferred to Hurstville City, NSW

Brendon Santalab (Chongqing Lifan) - transferred to Western Sydney Wanderers

Matthew Spiranovic (Al Arabi) - released, uncontracted

Chris Sullivan (Odysseas Kordeliou) - transferred to Para Hills, SA

Christos Tomaras (Paniliakos) - released, uncontracted

Dean Tomeski (Vardar)- released, uncontracted

Chris Vartaci (Kaposvari Rakoczi) - released, uncontracted

Aryn Williams (Burnley) - released, uncontracted

Jamie Young (Aldershot Town) - released, uncontracted

Club Level:-

England (Premiership) – a significant decline in the number of Aussies starting in the Premier League this year.  Mile Jedinak led Crystal Palace through the promotion playoffs and has continued as club captain.  Jedinak playing full games in his clubs first three fixtures.  Mark Schwarzer made headlines during the offseason after winning a deal at high flying Chelsea.  The biggest concern was always going to be the amount of game his plays.  To date, he has been watching Petr Cech from the bench. Brad Jones remains at Liverpool as the number two, and unfortunately may see similar amount of game time as Schwarzer depending on injuries.  Chris Herd is in the mix at AstonVilla but also yet to get off the bench. Pleasing to see Curtis Good make his senior debut for Newcastle in a Cup tie.

England (Championship) – with Scott McDonald making the move south to Millwall, they have arguable become our “Aussie team” with Shane Lowry also there.  For those with good memories, Lucas Neill and Tim Cahill both played over 150 games at The Den.  McDonald is yet to break his scoring duck, but is in the starting eleven. Shane Lowry hasn’t missed a beat, playing every minute of the first five games. Rhys Williams remains as captain at a Middlesbrough team looking to have a stronger season this campaign.  They are yet to suffer defeat and encouragingly, Rhys has also played every minute.  Alex Cisak (Burnley) is the only other Aussie to make an appearance in this league to date, coming off the bench.  Alarmingly, Adam Federici does not appear to be first choice keeper at Reading.

England (League One) – a reasonable representation of Aussies playing senior football.  The form leader to date would be Bailey Wright (Preston North End), playing every minute and scoring once.  James Meredith has started the season strongly at newly promoted Bradford City.  Massimo Luongo celebrated his permanent transfer to Swindon Town with a goal while Bradden Inman has finally got his transfer to Crewe Alexandria so will monitor his progress closely.  Kilkenny (Bristol City) and Wesolowski (Oldham Athletic) are working to cement their starting spots. 

England (League Two) – little Australian interest here beyond Aaron Downes starting each match for TorquayUnited and young Ryan Williams coming off the bench during his loan period at Oxford United. 

Germany (Bundesliga) – limited Aussie starts in the Bundesliga.  Mitch Langerak filled in at goal for Dortmund’s first game, but is now back on the pine.  Robbie Kruse is just starting to see some minutes off the bench at giant Bayer Leverkusen.

Germany (2.Bundesliga) – the prominent Aussie story so far has been the impressive form of Mathew Leckie at FSV Frankfurt. Two goals in his first five games of the campaign. Will be interesting to see how well he works well new loan signing Nikita Rukavytsya. Ben Halloran has not yet featured for Fortuna Dusseldorf, instead turning out for their reserves team.

Netherlands (Eredivisie) – two players to note in terms of their early season performances.  Tommy Oar has been prominent providing assists for FC Utrecht, while seeing Jason Davidson getting a good run in the Heracles Almelo team is also encouraging.  He recently scored his first league goal in five seasons.

Austria (Bundesliga) – James Holland is another player to resume where he left off last season, having started the club’s first seven fixtures.  He has also played a role in qualifying for this seasons Champions League.  

Belgium (Pro League) – the off-season transfer of Mat Ryan to Club Brugge seems to be paying immediate returns for both player and club.  They are undefeated after six games with Mat Ryan the first choice keeper in each of those games.

Scotland (Premier) - Midfielder Dylan McGowan has started the season in the starting eleven at Hearts.  U20 captain Jackson Irvine made the loan move to Kilmarnock and has been rewarded with senior football.  Tom Rogic has been struggling to overcome injury in the first month of the season, but with his club also qualifying for the Champions League, we expect to see his name in the starting eleven shortly at Celtic.

Switzerland (Super League) – Oliver Bozanic has made a fantastic start at his new club, FC Luzern. He has now scored five goals in his seven appearances to be second on the Golden Boot charts.  Dario Vidosic has just jetted in to FC Sion and made his debut immediately.

Croatia (1.HNL) – Adelaide born defender Tomislav Mrcela is finding his feet in the top flight.  Having now made four appearances (three starts) early in the season.  Another youngster unknown to many pundits is Steven Ugarkovic, who has now made his senior debut for NK Osijek while just 18 years of age.

Russia (Premier League) – over the month of August, Luke Wilkshire has worked his way back into the starting line-up at Dinamo Moscow. 

USA (MLS) – two big pieces of news from an Australian perspective, both from the NY Red Bulls. Tim Cahill has returned from injury to scored his eighth goal in 22 starts.  Although his injury is keeping out of the upcoming Socceroos game, can’t say I am too disappointed.  The other is the debut of David Carney after a long period out of the game. Yes he was rusty first up, but would be great to see him return to form before the playoffs in November.

China (Super League) – a huge nine Aussie players starting each week in China.  Hard to pick out highlights given they are all seeing good minutes, but Ryan McGowan continues to receive rave reviews at Shandong.  Erik Paartalu is scoring reasonably frequently for Tian Teda and the form of Daniel McBreen at Shanghai SIPG has one questioning if he will be back for the Mariners campaign.

Japan (J League) – Josh Kennedy has now had a decent injury free run.  This has resulted in him moving to 10 goals for the campaign and a club run that sees Nagoya Grampus well clear of relegation.  Joining him in Japan is Socceroos captain Lucas Neill.  After a few appearances from the bench, he finds himself in the starting eleven.  A position he hopes to hold for the remainder of the season.

Korea (K League Classic) – the Aussie contingent is slowly finding their way back on the pitch.  Alex Wilkinson has been a stand out for the rapidly improving Jeonbuk Motors, while Adrian Madaschi has returned from injury at Jeju United.  Luke Devere is in and out of the Gyeongham FC line up.

Thailand (Premier League) – this league has suddenly become relevant from an Australian perspective.  With Goran Subara (Bangkok Glass) and Kyle Nix (Chiangrai United) starting each week, and recent arrival Rocco Visconte making his debut at Suphanburi FC.

Uruguay – not to be forgotten, is marksman Richard Porta.  Now in his fourth stint at Nacional, two goals in his first three games is a good start.

Injuries:-   the off-season didn’t seem to be long enough for the medical rooms to be cleared.  Kofi Danning (CS Vise) is back in Brisbane recovering from his knee injury. Carl Valeri (ankle) is nearing fitness and hoping to make his Serie A debut shortly.  Rising Ascoli defender has cruelly been struck down, suffering a knee reconstruction during pre-season.  Adam Sarota (Utrecht) continues his knee rehab as he races the clock for a berth to Brazil. Several of the younger brigade are hoping to be back on the pitch in September.

Club Competitions:-

Europe

(UEFA Champions League) – with the qualifying period now complete, both James Holland (Austria Wien) and Tom Rogic (Celtic) have got to the main draw.  Holland appearing during the qualifiers, but not Rogic.

(UEFA Europa League) our Aussies in this competiton (Lustica – Hajduk Split and Mat Ryan – Club Bruge) did not progress beyond the qualifiers.

Asia

(Asian Champions League) – no Aussies remain.

(AFC Cup) – no Aussies remain.

Reserves and Youth:-

Having just commenced their season, will wait for September for a review of our young stars performances.

International level:-  No fixtures for the Socceroos during August, but on the back of the World Cup qualifiers and then the EAFF Cup, we have seen plenty of the team to start forming our squad for Brazil.  Speaking of which, the friendly against Brazil is just days away and the stakes are as high as possible for those players looking to go to the World Cup.  An interesting squad, and certainly nearing our best, with another opportunity against France coming up. 

Socceroo (capped) of the month – a very even month with Leckie, Cahill and Ryan all having good claims, but in terms of importance of his role, this month would have to be Rhys Williams.  Coming off a fairly average season by his standards, he is back the vengeance.  Leading his team, putting in solid match performances, and ultimately being rewarded with a Socceroos recall.

Under (uncapped) the radar – a transfer from HAL Winners Central Coast Mariners to Switzerland would have raised a few eyebrows. Oliver Bozanic has hit the ground running, scored five goals since the start of the season.  His name may well have been considered for Brazil, but given Holger's admission that numerous fringe players are being seriously scouted, perhaps his opportunity will come over the next few months.  Arguably playing in the most competitive Socceroos position, will be an interesting selection dilemma.

Young player (U21) of the month -  a little easier to pick this one, but Jackson Irvine has had a massive few months.  Captaining the U20 WC team, a preseason clash with Steven Gerrard, then a loan deal to Kilmarnock where he has slotted straight into the starting eleven.

Aussies Abroad: Month in Review - July 2013

Hello All 

 Compiled by Damian Davies 

June/July is always an interesting period given the amount of transfer activity, but this season we have had the added privilege of seeing the Socceroos in World Cup qualification, followed closely by the EAFF Cup. Given very little action at club level over this period, I will focus on the summer transfers that have occurred, resuming the full article in August.  With the successful WC2014 qualification for the Socceroos, time also to focus on who will make the touring party twelve months from now.   

 

For a full listing of our Aussies Abroad, please see the attachment.

 

Transfers:-  a massive amount of movement as players chase first team football.  No doubt the lure of a ticket to Brazil is on the mind of many.  In terms of trends, China and the U.A.E. are the hotspots.  With the Hyundai A-League seeing some big names arrive and others go out on loan.  With the transfer window remaining open during August expect plenty of rumours around proposed moves as recently released players look for a new home.

 

Additions/changes to player database:

Aziz Behich (16 Dec 1990) – loan from Bursaspor to Melbourne Heart, Australia

Eddy Bosnar (29 Apr 1980) – transferred from Suwon Bluewings to Guangzhou R&F, China

Dean Bouzanis (2 Oct 1991) – transferred from Oldham Athletic to Aris, Greece

Oliver Bozanic (8 Jan 1989) - transferred from Central Coast Mariners to FC Luzern, Switzerland

Anthony Carter (31 Aug 1994) - loan from Parma to ND Gorica, Slovenia

Billy Celeski (14 Jul 1985) – transferred from Melbourne Victory to Al Shaab, U.A.E.

Alex Cisak (19 May 1989) - transferred from Oldham Athletic to Burnley, England

Simon Colosimo (8 Jan 1979) - transferred from Melbourne Heart to Dempo, India

Albert Edward (19 Nov 1991) - transferred to Des Moines Menance, USA

Ryan Edwards (18 Nov 1993) – loan from Reading FC to Perth Glory, Australia

Joel Griffiths (21 Aug 1979) – transferred from Sydney FC to Qingdao Jonoon, China

Brett Holman (27 Mar 1984) - transferred from Aston Villa to Al Nasr, U.A.E.

Jordan Holmes (1997) - transferred to Bournemouth FC, England

Shane Huke (2 Oct 1985) – transferred from Dover Athletic to Ebbsfleet United, England

Bernie Ibini-Isei (12 Sep 1992) - transferred from Central Coast Mariners to Shanghai SIPG, China

Jack Jones (1997) - transferred to Stevenage FC, England

Kile Kennedy (8 Apr 1989) - transferred to KF Fjardabyggd, Iceland

Josip Konyit (29 Apr 1992) – transferred to CFR Cluj II, Romania

Calvin Lovric (12 Sept 1992) – loan return to Parma, Italy

Sasa Macura (28 Nov 1991) – loan return to MTK Budapest, Hungary

Daniel McBreen (23 Apr 1977) loan from Central Coast Mariners to Shanghai SIPG, China

Scott McDonald (21 Aug 1983) – transferred from Middlesbrough to Millwall, England

Ross Millard (1997) - transferred to Stevenage FC, England

Chris Oikonomidis (4 May 1995) – transferred from Atalanta to Lazio, Italy

Tolgey Ozbey (12 Apr 1986) - transferred from Mohun Bagan to Mohammedan SC, India

Caleb Patterson-Sewell (20 May 1987) - transferred from Vitoria Setubal to Gil Vicente, Portugal

Jovo Pavlovic (16 Aug 1989) – transferred from Mitra Kukar to South China, Hong Kong

Richard Porta (1 Aug 1983) – transferred from Dubai Club to Nacional, Uruguay

Aaron Schneebeli (11 Jan 1993) - transferred from US college to Forest City London, USA
Mark Schwarzer (6 Oct 1972) – transferred from Fulham to Chelsea, England

Mario Simic (28 Dec 1989) – transferred from HNK Zmaj Makarska to NK Inter Zapresic, Croatia

Giannis Simosis (13 Mar 1991) – transferred from AO Kerkyra to Wacker Burghausen, Germany

Robert Stambolziev (26 Oct 1990) – transferred from Olympiakos Nicosia to AEK Kouklion, Cyprus

Stefan Stanojevic (11 Feb 1994) – transferred to Metalac GM, Serbia

Roko Strika (12 Feb 1994) – loan from GNK Dinamo Zagreb to NK Maksimir, Croatia

Milan Susak (29 Jan 1984) - transferred from Sepahan to Al Wasl, U.A.E

Rocco Visconte (22 Apr 1990) – transferred from Western Sydney to Suphanburi, Thailand

Frane Vladislavic (9 Jan 1994) – loan from Hajduk Split to Hrvatski Dragovoljac, Croatia

 

Removed from player database: 

Luke Adams (Derby County) – transferred to Wellington Phoenix

Andrew Barisic (East Bengal _ transferred to Melbourne Knights, Vic

Michael Cavallaro (FC Lustenau) – transferred to Adelaide Cobras, SA

Nick Carle (Baniyas SC) - transferred to Sydney FC

Corey Gameiro (Fulham) - transferred to Sydney FC

Harry Kewell (Al Gharafa) - transferred to Melbourne Heart

Jamie Maclaren (Blackburn) - transferred to Perth Glory

Dane Milovanovic (Pelita Bandung Raya) – transferred to Bentleigh Greens, Vic

Daniel Moss (Greenock Morton) – uncontracted, whereabouts unknown

Dimitri Petratos (Kelantan FC) - transferred to Brisbane Roar

Chris Ross (Vikingur Reykjavik) – uncontracted, whereabouts unknown

James Sammut (Birzebbugu St.Peter’s) – transferred to Inglewood FC, WA

Chris Sharpe (Colorado Rapids) – retired, now coaching (Colorado Rapids)

Francesco Stella (Bellaria Igea) – loan return to Melbourne Victory

Josh Tanner (FCV Dender) – transferred to Rockedale City Suns, NSW

Marc Warren (Airdrie United) -  transferred to Sydney FC

 

The World Cup contenders:-

 The squad from the recent World Cup qualifiers was close to full strength so let’s recap on that.  Schwarzer, Langerak, Galekovic, Neill, Wilkshire, Milligan, Ognenovski, Franjic, North, Cornthwaite, McGowan, Bresciano, McKay, Kruse, Oar, Rogic, Vidosic, Holland, Jedinak, Cahill, Holman, Kennedy, Thompson.  Barring injury I would think no more than 8 places are debatable.  That said, injuries, poor form and bolters will always come into the equation.  We have had a sighter of those fringe Socceroos during the EAFF Cup but who from that squad can step up? In no particular order, and apologies to those not listed.

 

Goalkeepers:

Adam Federici – long regarding as the heir apparent to Mark Schwarzer, the big Reading stopper had a troubled 2012/13 season culminating in his club getting relegated.  Dropping out of the Premier League will be an issue, but a return to fitness, and being restored at the number one could be enough.

Dean Bouzanis – sure, this is a long shot, but the promising custodian could get a gig as the third keeper.  We all remember that assertions were made that he was one of the best junior keepers in the world. He had a breakout season at Oldham, albeit League One, however he has made the big move to the Greek Super League.  If he can cement himself as the number one, will hard not to take notice.

Bolter – Mat Ryan made the off-season move to Europe and has started as first-choice at Club Brugge but needs to continue that form. Will get exposure to Europa League football and may be considered a great investment for the future. For a young keeper, has been well recognised in Australia while at the Mariners

 

Defenders:

Rhys Williams – the Middlesbrough captain has already made 11 appearances for the Socceroos and was forced out of 2010 South Africa due to injury at the eleventh hour.  Known for his versatility, he did not return from injury as strong as he would have liked last season.  As a starting point, he needs to be playing each week and at the level of form seen in the past.  Questionable if a move to the Premier League would help or hinder his chances at this stage.

Shane Lowry – no doubt Australia has had problems at left back since Chipperfield and Carney left the scene.  After switching allegiances to Australia, Lowry is coming off a career best season at Millwall.  He seems to have most the attributes you would want for a defender and has the ability to hold down several roles at the back.  Time to see what he can do an international level in upcoming friendlies.

Matt Spiranovic – also seemingly anointed as a future lynchpin for the Socceroos, things have gone a little off course over the past few years.  Having been a decorated junior in Germany, to a bit player in Japan, and now often starting in Qatar – where to next?  After plenty of injury frustrations, Matt needs to get fit and play some games to put himself in the frame.  If that is done, perhaps a loan deal to either Australia or Europe could help once he has some starts under the belt.

Bolters – Aziz Behich seemingly made an ill-fated transfer to Turkey.  Good management by him/agent has seen him return to Melbourne Heart on loan for the season.  He would certainly have learned a few new tricks while in Europe, now hopefully some first team football and he will be back on the radar.  He has 5 Socceroos caps already.  Ersan Gulum was much publicised a few years ago because of the tug-of-war between Turkey and Australia to secure his services.  Now fast forward a few seasons, he is still not tied, but representing one of the bigger Turkish clubs and holding down centre back and can play on the left.  Has had Europa League experience so a solid start to this campaign could prove interesting.

 

Midfielders:

Chris Herd – has often been close, but injury seems to have always prevented an appearance in the green and gold.  Has now made over 30 Premier League appearances, which is a decent claim to fame.  Fairly versatile but is likely to be fighting it out with the defensive midfielders, which is a position we have several good options. Another player who we need to see at international level, but a strong, injury free start to this new campaign is critical.

Aaron Mooy – after playing his junior football at Bolton and in Scotland, he has certainly made an impact once returning to Australia.  We recently got a good chance to see him in the EAFF Cup.  He certainly brings a X-Factor with his game.  Needs to continue his strong domestic form but is another youngster who may get a seat on the bus as a project player.

Bolter – Adam Sarota.  Currently out with a knee injury, Adam was enjoying a break out year along with featuring for the Socceroos on several occasions. Brings something a little different to the mix and if he returns shortly and returns to his old form, he may sneak in to the squad.

 

Forwards:

Harry Kewell – arguably our greatest ever Socceroo, no doubting his pedigree.  The problem is his age and lack of first team football.  Having signed with Melbourne Heart, this is surely an audition for him.  A starting role with the national team seems too far away for him, but an impact player off the bench has worked wonders before.  Is that wishful thinking that those days are not beyond him?

Mat Leckie – the former Adelaide marksman has had his share of up’s and down’s while in Germany.  Ten goals in 50 appearances over 3 years tells that story.  Spending reasonable periods in the medical rooms and rotating on and off the bench.  He is back starting and scoring, can he keep that up and start to make a real impact to push his case forward.

Scott McDonald – someone who seems never to have had real problems scoring at club level throughout a ten year career, he has had chances but not made a huge impact at international level.  More times than not, the formation and style of play of the Socceroos hasn’t suited him, which may again prove to be a barrier.  He has just transferred to Millwall, not sure if that advances his claims or not.  He would have to be an outside chance of going to his first World Cup.

Bolter - Mitchell Duke.  Having only made his senior debut last season at the Mariners, and then representing Australia at the EAFF Cup, certainly a fairy tale start to his career.  Mitch certainly has the ability but maybe not the experience.  He has done his chances no harm of late, but a solid domestic season will help his cause even further.

 

A bit more experimenting over the next few months, but I imagine at least twenty of our World Cup squad will be locked in by early 2014.  Plenty of names who I have not mentioned here, and that is the beauty of the next six months.  We are bound to be both surprised and disappointed by some of our Top 50 national players.  Best wishes to all the players that so nobly fly the Australian flag around the world.

 

 

Socceroos Qualify for Brazil 2014

High Anxiety with the Socceroos

Nothing brings together people in Sydney like a do or die qualifying game for a World Cup berth. The Eurosnob, the Socceroos fanatic , the newbies,  the one night stand theatre goers, the A League purist, the Wallabies , Tennis and Cricket Fans and even those who couldn’t care less about sport. Something about the Socceroos and the World Cup brings Australians together and it’s sharing that common connection with people that are different from me that makes me love moments like this. We all want to be involved in History right?

Omens before the Game

Hearing that two of Iraq’s best players retired made everyone think it was going to be a romp (Me included). But talking to people in the build up (away from Twitter) to real live humans with proper sentences and even a paragraph or two I could hear myself say: “Iraq are a good team with quality players and they would “luve” it like Kevin Keegan if they could stop Australia from qualifying for a third consecutive World Cup especially in our own backyard.”

Before the game Ned Zelic was getting all metta on us taking the piss out of himself by quoting his infamous ubiquitous commentary analysis from the 2010 World Cup “Individual brilliance, fantasy & imagination are the #Ingredients  that the Socceroos need.”

Trying to get into the Stadium

There is stadium etiquette when going to a big game in a group of more than four people.  There are two rules, stay in the group at all times and check that everyone has tickets before you enter. For a control freak like me these rules are sacrosanct but for the others who are loose with their stadium behaviour this can cause great anguish and furious anxiety.

So obviously those two rules were broken.

There are five people in our party. In groups of more than four people it’s common for the group to usually split up in two’s. So we split into my Brother (the Socceroos Fanatic) Jim (a casual Euro snob and Socceroos fanatic) and his friend let’s just call him the Eurosnob.

I am walking with my brother Phillip who loves the Socceroos so much he developed Bell's palsy because of the excitement of going to his first  World Cup in 20006 with unconfirmed scalped tickets. The other member of our party was Jim’s dad. He is the odd one out. He’s old and senile.  So that makes him the odd one out (talk to Darwin).  

So my anxiety levels increase when the group splits. The father gets lost as we are walking to the Stadium and as me and my brother are trying to find our gate and looking for the others and the old man my chemicals start to rise. Finally we find the old man and I yell at Jim (his son): “You let your father walk into a crowd of 80,000 people by himself?”  As we are about to enter through the gates  the poor old bloke announces that he threw away the printed ticket.  

The tickets marshals are on the case, but it’s looking like a long night outside the stadium for the old guy as there is no internet connection to provide proof of purchase.

And then just like magic the old man realises he has another pocket and finds the lost ticket. In we go.....almost because then the poor old man couldn’t get through the turn style, and was struggling with the electronic bar code. Now there are five minutes till kick off and I’m losing it. Again I yell at Jim because I have to yell at someone and apportion the blame.

The Game

Having a don't fuck it up mentality is a crazy mindset to have when playing for a place in the World Cup.  When teams like Iraq in this instance are free to play without pressure it creates a heady mix of butt checks being clenched and underwear becoming wet due to the strain of it all.

The Iraqi players had skill and coupled with the Iraqi time wasting tactics it was stopping the Socceroos momentum. The Iraqi’s held the ball for long periods and were frustrating the Socceroos.  Three really good chances for the Socceroos to score in the first half didn't eventuate in a goal. I feel sorry for the mature aged Rugby couple sitting next to me as I have been swearing like an Australian politician who thinks no-one is listening or watching. Some levity makes its way into the evening when the whistle blew for half time. The wife of the Rugby couple says in a posh accent. "That wasn't impressive at all."

Then in the second half it started raining more heavily and wouldn’t you know it the roof had a leak and it was raining on me and our World Cup Qualification hopes.  It’s not raining goals and after more time wasting by the Iraqi’s someone behind me in the crowd yells “go home to Auburn (a Sydney suburb with lots of Middle Eastern residents)” It gets a hearty laugh from the crowd around him and I yell back “it’s racist but we’ll take it”. John Oliver was right! We are all comfortably racist! But this is the World Cup casual racism is the least of worries. Australia can’t score.

The final 10 minutes of the Socceroos made the world around me amplified to such a level that at times I was losing my focus on the game.  Eyes on the substitutes, eyes on the clock, people yelling shit all over the place kids in front of me turning back in shock at a loud ethnic voice yelling expletives. I could hear conversations from other sections of the crowds that were two or three bays away, the air was getting thin, and then with Tim Cahill off and everyone cursing Holger Jesus scores! Blasphemy has never been so much fun!! I turned to the man from the Rugby couple and said: “79,000 people just un-clenched their butt cheeks”, and he replied: “you don’t have to tell me”.

 

(Picture left: I met Jesus! Josh Kennedy Socceroos winning goal scorer that took Australia to Brazil 2014 with me in the glasses in 2009 on far right)

After the game I shook an Iraqi fans hand outside the stadium and I praised his team for the way they played (when they weren’t flopping and staging) and for the skill of their players.  Does that gesture with the Iraq fan mean I have redeemed myself for being agreeable to a racist comment earlier? Anyway Auburn is an ok place to live in; I’ve heard that it’s quite similar to parts of Hollywood.

If Iraq can one day find some peace and stability in their country and if the Lions of Mesopotamia could play at home in Iraq instead of neutral Qatar surely it won’t be long before they kick some international butt at a World Cup tournament one day?

Some Random Thoughts

•  In today’s PC world of strict definitions of casual human behaviour Australia is casually racist and Holger is casually sexist. But who cares?  We are going to the World Cup!

• Why didn't Adnan Kadhim shoot in the 89th minute? Who cares the Socceroos are going to Brazil!!!

• Without Mark Schwarzer none of us would be here or going to Brazil or have gone to Germany or South Africa.

• Mark Milligan has a high arching kick that if he doesn’t watch himself will get Australia in trouble.

• Watch the Josh Kennedy goal again but this time close your eyes and pay close attention to the noise of anticipation from the crowd when Brecsiano crosses, it is amazing. http://www.foxsports.com.au/football/kennedy-heads-roos-into-wc/video-e6frf423-1226665925490?subcat=1111112039415 …

• Most importantly we got a song for Brazil 2014. Peter Allen is going to make a lot of uncoordinated people go mental! Australians were forced to dance to “When my Baby goes To Rio” during High School as part of the physical education curriculum. Let the bad dance moves begin!! Time to start practicing the anti- rhythm of the"The White Samba"

The Future

• It would be nice to see Tommy Oar play in a central attacking midfield role or at least switch with Brett Holman once or twice. The kid is very dangerous when he runs in the middle.

• This is why I follow football!!! Getting to the party is half the Job!! A year of high quality football banter awaits! Go The Socceroos!!

• I love the Aussie Aussie Ole Ole chant we need more of that in Brazil please, rhyming Aussie slang is in our culture lets use it.

Aussies Abroad Month in Review April

 Aussies Abroad compiled by Damian Davies

April has to be one of the most exciting months on the pitch as the European leagues come to an end, where promotions/relegations and European places are determined.  A real mixed bag for our Aussies Abroad, looking like a higher proportion of players suffering the drop, so will be interesting to see the transfers over the summer. A decent amount of games have now been played across the Asian leagues this season so we can check in on our Aussies.  The domestic league is over, congratulations to the Central Coast Mariners, and the exodus of players seems to have commenced.  The club competitions round the globe have progressed beyond the group stages, we will see which Aussies remain.

Transfers:-  a bit of one way traffic this month with players from the both the A-League and WA league making their way overseas.  The pattern of Aussie youth heading abroad also seems to be continuing.

Additions/changes to player database:

Terry Antonis (26 Nov 1993) - transferred from Sydney FC to Parma, Italy

Eli Babalj (21 Feb 1992) - transferred from Melbourne Heart to AZ Alkmaar, Netherlands

Cameron Burgess (21 Oct 1995) - transferred from Joondalup to Fulham, England

Adam Griffiths (21 Aug 1979) - transferred from Sydney FC to Selangor FA, Malaysia

Harry Kewell (22 Sept 1978) - uncontracted, transferred to Al Gharafa, Qatar

Daniel Leach (5 Jan 1986) - uncontracted, transferred to Eastbourne Borough, England

Daniel Moss (8 Apr 1994) - transferred from NTC to Greenock Morton, Scotland

James Sammut (12 Dec 1989) - transferred from Inglewood to Birzebbugu St.Peter's, Malta

Ryan Strain (TBC) - transferred from Modbury Jets to Aston Villa, England

Josh Tanner (17 Jan 1994) - transferred from UE Cornella to FCV Dender, Belgium

Connor Thurston (TBC) - transferred from Perth SC to Blackpool FC, England

Removed from player database: 

Yahaya Musa (Wilmington Hammerheads) - uncontracted, whereabouts unknown

Anthony Skorich (Mitra Kukar) - uncontracted, returned to Australia 

Club Level:-

England (Premiership) - Mark Schwarzer (Fulham) is the only Aussie that got any starts in the EPL during February.  His contract has been the focus of discussion over the past few weeks so will be interested to see if he can hang on for one more season leading into the World Cup. Just one appearance as a substitute for Brett Holman this month, but great to see Villa look like staying up after a crushing defeat of Sunderland.  Adam Federici (Reading) made one start in his return from injury before heading back to the medical rooms.  Having returned straight back to the Championship, another player that will be carefully considering his future.  Brad Jones (Liverpool) warmed the pine behind Reina.

England (Championship) – for a season that looked to promise a lot for our Aussies, with one game to go, seems as through Mile Jedinak at Crystal Palace is the only one that will see play-off action.  He missed a few games due to suspension, so will be nice and fresh for the play-offs.  Scott McDonald took his season tally to 13 goals for Middlesborough, whereas Rhy Williams was in and out of the starting eleven.  Failure to again get promoted may mean moving on for both players.  Shane Lowry (Millwall) also served a suspension which coincided with 3 losses to his club.  They would like a point from their last game to hopefully avoid the drop.  He has managed 3 suspensions in the past few months on the back of his 13 yellows!! Pleasing to see Neil Kilkenny back in the starting eleven at Bristol City, but has not been his most productive season and his club have now be relegated. Having played just 32 minutes during his loan spell at Ipswich Town, Patrick Kisnorbo may make his way back to Australia for the next season.

England (League One) – Massimo Luongo will be the sole Aussie involved in the play-offs in this league as Swindon Town scrapped into the final round.  He hasn't missed a minute in his seven starts and will play an important role as his loan club push for promotion. The other young Aussie on loan in this league is Brad Inman at Crewe.  He managed 21 appearances and 5 goals in a productive stint.  Our Aussies at Oldham managed to stay up after a shaky last two games.  Dean Bouzanis was the big find for the season, ending with 36 starts and keeping Alex Cisak (5 starts) on the bench.   A little shocked to hear both Bouzanis and young Aussie keeper Liam Jacob have been released. James Wesolowski has ended the season with over 2600 minutes, a very welcome stat after spending so much time out injured.  Over 3000 minutes for young centre back Bailey Wright at Preston North End, which was rewarded with a contract extension. 

England (League Two) – only James Meredith at Bradford City is any chance of promotion after making the playoffs.  He has returned to the starting line-up after a stint on the sidelines with glandular fever.  Jamie Young (Aldershot) made 44 starts but will be shattered after his club was relegated and lost their league status.  Aaron Downes made 38 starts in his first season at Torquay and would be content with that output.  On loan Shane Cansdell-Sheriff (Rochdale) had a successful stint, and combined with his efforts at PNE, made 32 starts for the season. 

Germany (Bundesliga) – another solid month for Robbie Kruse at relegation threatened Fortuna Dusseldorf.  A strong season means the rumours are flying that he is on the verge of transferring to giant Bayer Leverkusen. Mitch Langerak got a rare start at Dortmund, while Nikita Rukavytsya has made his return from injury. 

Germany (2.Bundesliga) – Mathew Leckie has finally put together a good string of games, now having made 25 appearances for the season.

Netherlands (Eredivisie) – Tommy Oar made three starts for the month at Utrecht while Michael Zullo was in and out of the starting eleven.

Turkey (Super Lig) – Ersan Gulum (Besiktas) continued his strong run in defence, derailed only by a suspension for amassing too many yellow cards. Kerem Bulut (Akhiser Belediye GS) continues to make appearances from the pine as his team has incredibly got out of the relegation zone nearing the end of the season.

Austria (Bundesliga) – Twenty-nine starts now for James Holland at league leading Austria Wien, with the title close to wrapped up.

Scotland (Premier) - Midfielder Dylan McGowan has now made 17 appearances this season for Hearts.  Whereas Tom Rogic finally got a starting berth late in the month for Celtic.  With the title in the bag, hope to see a few more appearances for the ex-Mariner.

Denmark (Superliga) - while accumulating over 200 minutes of game time coming off the bench, Brent McGrath will be looking to break into the starting line-up at Brondby.

Greece (Super League) – Apostolis Giannou would be content with his nine starts while on loan at Plantanias, and hope to push on now at PAOK. 

Greece (Football League) – Twenty-three year old midfielder Andreas Govas (AEL Kallonis) has scored his debut goal and made 16 appearances for his new club.  While Billy Konstantinidis (Ethinikos Gazoros) is now up to 15 appearances for the season.

   

Cyprus (1.Division) - young winger Robert Stambolziev (Olympiakos Nicosia) has made 24 appearances as his club face a battle to avoid relegation.

Russia (Premier League) - Luke Wilkshire is back in the starting line-up at Dinamo Moscow.  His club have not been defeated in the league since November.   

Malta (Premier League) - Jacob Borg has now made an impressive 23 appearances at Balzan Youths and been an unused substitute again for the Malta national team.

    

USA (MLS) - how refreshing to see a Tim Cahill brace at NY Red Bulls late in April after a bit of a goal drought at club level.

China (Super League) - plenty of highlights from China. A brace to Erik Paartalu at Tianjin Teda and several players like Ryan McGowan (Shandong Luneng) and Jonas Salley (Guizhou Renhe) yet to miss a minute of the season.

Japan (J League) - fantastic to see Josh Kennedy (Nagoya Grampus) back starting and scoring after a long injury break.

Korea (K League Classic) - a high number of Aussies still in the treatment room, but Adrian Madaschi (Jeju United) was  a constant in defence by the end of April.

India (I League) - Tolgey Ozbey (Mohun Bagan) has moved to 9 goals this season in 16 starts, whereas Andrew Barisic is proving to be more an AFC Cup specialist having scored 3 goals in that competition but none in the league.

Qatar (Stars League) - the season has now ended.  Sasa Ognenovski (Umm Salal) made 18 starts, as did Mark Bresciano (Al Gharafa). Matt Spiranovic made 12 starts in an injury interrupted season for Al Arabi.  Harry Kewell made a brief cameo for Al Gharafa to replace the injured Bresciano.

U.A.E. (UFL) – nearing the end of the season, Dino Djulbic has been the stand out Aussie, with Alex Brosque a close second.   

Injuries:-   seems to be a large number of long-term injuries at the moment, with the following players all out; Adam Sarota (knee), Kofi Danning (knee), Chris Herd (foot), Carl Valeri (ankle), Nathan Burns (knee), Luke Devere (knee) and Shane Huke (foot), Brad Smith (knee), Taylor Tombides (knee) and Mark Bresciano (knee). The off-season could be very busy in rehab for these boys.

Club Competitions:-

Europe

(UEFA Champions League) - Mitch Langerak's Borussia Dortmund have now made the all German final for late May.  Although likely to be warmeingthe bench, great experience for the young shot stopper.

(UEFA Europa League) t- he Aussie connection at Tottenham was eliminated at the quarters, with our boys not featuring. 

Asia

(Asian Champions League) – while in the group stages, numerous Aussies have been seeing game time; Jonas Salley (Guizhou Renhe), Alex Brosque (Al Ain), Milan Susak (Sephahan), Eddie Bosnar (Suwon Bluewings) and Alex Wilkinson (Jeonbuk Motors).  Unfortunately Jeonbuk Motors and Al Gharafa (Bresciano) are the only clubs with Aussies to progress.

(AFC Cup) – Dimitri Petratos (Kelantan), Michael Cvetkovski (Yangon United) and Andrew Barisic (East Bengal) all played critical roles in April as their clubs progressed to the knockout phase.

North America

(CONCACAF Champions League) – Andy Rose appeared for Seattle Sounders as they were knocked out in the semi-finals at the expense of Mexican club Santos Laguna

Oceania

(O League)

A big chance for one of our Aussies progressing to the World Club Championships with Scott Gannon (BA FC) and keeper Michael Rutherford (Amicale) both appearing as their respective clubs advanced to the semi-finals and are on opposite side of the draw.

Reserves and Youth:-

These leagues are winding down as well, but mention to some of the April standouts.

U21's – starting in England, Leicester City Aussies Rob Paratore and Callum Elder, Tom King (Bristol City), Giancarlo Gallifuoco (Tottenham), Cameron Burgess (Fulham), Jordan Lyden (Aston Villa), Jackson Irvine (Celtic) and Alex Baird (Dundee).

Youth – Peter Makrillos (Stoke City), Gethin Jones (Everton), Milos Degenek (VfB Stuttgart) and James Stojcevski (FC Astoria Walldorf) continue to appear in their respective leagues.

International level:-  No fixtures in April but June will be busy with World Cup qualifiers and the U20 World Cup.

Socceroo(capped) of the month – when the developing Socceroo was an off-season transfer from Scotland to China, a few people shook their heads.Ryan McGowan seems to have settled in China, cemented his place and dis elivering outstanding performances on the pitch.  Yet to miss a minute, a debut goal and his club are well placed.  Great start.

January – Federici, February - Jedinak, March - Holland

Under (uncapped) the radar – another player from the Super League in China.  Erik Paartalu decided to move on from the Championship winning Brisbane Roar to China.  He hasn't missed a beat, and is a physical standout with his height and blonde hair.  Also yet to miss a minute of game time and scored an impressive brace during the month to take his tally to 3.  He has made Socceroo squads, but not yet taken the field.

January – Bouzanis, February - Gulum, March - Lowry

Young player (U21) of the month -  here is a name probably only known to the football enthusiast.  Represented NZ at youth level, recently made his Serie B debut, 20 years old and eligible to represent Australia.  Liam Graham, product of the Vicenza academy and 3-4 years in the Italian youth system.  Watch this space.

January – Wright, February - Paratore, March - Skapetis