Aussies Prove We Can Match It With The Best

Last night's match against Holland has proven to me that we are now able to match it with the best in the world, and this includes the great Brazil.

The fact that we were able to draw against a full strength Dutch outfit 1-1, is testimony in itself, however, the fact that we started pretty slowly and that the Dutch side had a vast majority of the ball as well as us playing out the game with 10 men after Luke Wiltshire was sent off, further strengthens the argument we can make the second round of the cup.

Although the Dutch had created the majority of chances, and we were being kept in it by some sensational goalkeeping by Mark Schwarzer, we could have considered ourselves a little unlucky to not be on level terms at half time when Mark Viduka's head on goal was brilliantly saved.

The second half we lifted a cog and Dukes deservedly received a penalty. Of concern was his missed the conversion again (perhaps it is time Dukes stood down from penalty duties after missing against Uruguay as well?), however it was great to see Tim Cahill come onto the field and with his first touch, slot in the rebounding ball.

Harry Kewell was also missing, and there is little doubt his influence in the midfield will provide a huge boost to the side.

Things are looking good for the lads, and with 5 days to go until I depart, I cannot wait!!