The straw that broke the camel’s back (to be honest it should have been broken a while ago) was their efforts from Saturday’s night’s game. Although it must be said that I did watch the game live – I have watched the highlights and their commentary was appallingly biased in its nature. And it’s not the first time.

First take a look at the goals scored by both teams – the contrast in reactions from both commentators is extremely stark depending on who has scored. When both Cole and Gan scored the opening two goals, the two could barely control themselves with every cliché being used and almost professing their affection for Cole after his effort.

Whilst I will admit that both of those Sydney strikes were worthy of some kind of reaction, both Harper and Cockerill’s enthusiasm was clearly lessened when Nick Ward hit the back of the net with his own effort for goal of the year to level the scores.

The final example is Cockerill’s reaction when Danny Allsopp bowled over John Kosmina. For all of you haven’t seen or heard it – I have included it below. You can almost hear Cockerill’s veins popping in his head as without any review of the incident he is calling for immediate sanctioning of the Victory striker. His disappointment when all that Allsopp receives is a strong talking by Matthew Breeze is almost palpable.

Another thing that galls a lot of fans is that even when commentating on a Sydney FC game they will make some inane reference to the aforementioned team. As a Melbourne fan, I don’t particularly want to hear about our arch rival when they are not involved in the contest – and I am sure that applies to most non-Sydney fans.

I think its time for Fox Sports to show the red card to these two clowns and blood some new talent or give Simon Hill (clearly the best commentator on Fox) some more A-League air time. They have had four years and they haven’t changed their ways at all. Give someone else a go or otherwise you might find many fans switching off (the sound that is).

Neil Zimmerman is the editor of the84thminute and also runs the Victory In Melbourne site. He also can be found at au.fourfourtwo.com where he writes a weekly column on the Melbourne Victory.

The last day of the 2008 Homeless World Cup was a day when all the trophies and cups were handed out in front of huge crowds in Federation Square.

Romania vs Mexico, The Community Cup Final, Federation Square Pitch

Mexico put the game beyond doubt in the first half with a dominant first half performance with their much better finishing and composure on the ball going in 4-0 at the break. Romania scored two quick goals early in the second half to give themselves a chance but in the end the Mexicans ran out convincing winners with the last five goals of the game to win 11-2.

Result: Mexico 11 def Romania 2

Chile vs Rwanda, The Big Issue Home City Cup Final, Federation Square Pitch

After both teams sang their national anthem with passion, the game start off in a cagey fashion. The Rwandans had the better scoring opportunities early on with both teams looking to restrict the scoring chances of their opposition. Early in the second half both teams exchanged goals in a contest of high quality that had the large crowd enthralled. Rwanda scored the last two goals of the game to run out 5-4 winners in a great contest where both teams did themselves proud.

Result: Rwanda 5 def Chile 4

Zimbabwe vs France, City Cup Final, Federation Square Pitch

The Zimbabweans put on a dominant display in the first half where they put eight goals past their opponents with the speed and skill proving too much. France could not get a look in it was an impressive performance from Zimbabwe, who dominated all aspects of the match. The second half was a much tighter affair with the French getting finally getting on the scorebaord, scoring the first of the half. However the damage had been done in the first half and Zimbabwe ran out comfortable 12-2 winners.

Result: Zimbabwe 12 def France 2

Ireland vs Nigeria, Dignitary Cup Final, Federation Square Pitch.

It was a very even beginning to this match with plenty of shots coming in from both sides. Both ‘keepers were up to the task and made a number of excellent saves early in the second half and at the break Ireland lead 3-2. The Irish then took control of the match in the second half as Nigeria struggled to find the back of net, either finding the crossbar or the Ireland ‘keeper in their way. In the end, Ireland ran out comfortable 7-3 winners.

Result: Ireland 7 def Nigeria 3

Liberia (w) vs Zambia (w), Women’s Homeless World Cup Final, Federation Square Pitch

The first ever Women’s Homeless World Cup Final started off in tight fashion and it wasn’t until the fourth minute that Zambia opened the scoring. Liberia, who were missing a number of regular players due to injury, struggled against the well organised Zambians, who looked more composed in front of goal than their opponents. Liberia, finally got on the scoreboard early in the second half, which drew a great cheer from the supporting crowd. However, it was going to be the only moment of joy for them as Zambia ran out 7-1 winners, maintaining their unbeaten run and becoming the inaugural holder of the Women’s Homeless World Cup.

Result: Zambia 7 def Liberia 1

Russia vs Afghanistan, Homeless World Cup Final, Federation Square Pitch

After the earlier thrilling encounter between these two teams in the tournament, this was always going to be an enthralling contest and neither team disappointed. Like their previous encounter, the two teams were evenly matched and only a late goal in the first half saw Afghanistan take 3-2 lead. The two teams stepped it up a gear in terms of quality in the second half, with the Russians relying on a patient build up to break down their opponents. The teams went goal for goal with the Afghanis matching every effort of the Russians with a goal of their own. The Afghani ‘keeper made a number of crucial saves throughout the second half, including one in the dying seconds to deny the Russians to take out their first ever Homeless World Cup 5-4 in a high quality match.

Result: Afghanistan 5 def Russia 4

For the full results for the 2008 Homeless World Cup, click here.

Neil Zimmerman is the editor of the84thminute and also runs the Victory In Melbourne site. He also can be found at au.fourfourtwo.com where he writes a weekly column on the Melbourne Victory. On most weekends Neil can be found at a football match, be it either A-League, Victorian Premier League or a match that he happens to come across whilst walking his dogs.

This was a crunch game for the Colombians as they required a win to progress to the final of the women’s section of the Homeless World Cup in place of their opponents. The first half was enthralling with Liberia having the better scoring opportunities but just couldn’t find the target. Colombia made them pay as they lead 3-2 at the break thanks to their better finishing skills in front of goal. Early in the second half both teams traded goals as neither team shirked the issue what was fast becoming a war of attrition. By the end of the full time the two teams couldn’t be separated so the match went to sudden death penalties. Liberia triumphed 1-0 as Colombia missed their first penalty.

Result: Colombia 5 drew with Liberia 5 (Liberia won 1-0 on penalties)

Zimbabwe vs Lithuania, City Cup Semi-Final, Federation Square Pitch

This was also going to be a game of contrasts. The slow, patient build up of the Lithuanians versus the speed and agility of the Zimbabweans. And in the end it was the speed and agility of the Zimbabweans that triumphed as it proved a little too much for their opponents. The Lithuanians had their ‘keeper to thank for making a string of great saves to limit the damage as Zimbabwe ran out comfortable 7-2 winners.

Result: Zimbabwe 7 def Lithuania 2

France vs Netherlands, City Cup Semi-Final, Federation Square Pitch

This was a fierce and physical clash between these two European powerhouses with the side fences copping a pounding early on. France skipped to an early lead but the Dutch pegged them back with two late goals as the teams finished the half on level terms. For France, Hardy Bagura was inspirational for the French as both teams displayed a level of passion befitting a semi-final as they rode a wave of emotions with each goal scored. The two teams went goal for goal in the second half and it looked as if the game could be headed for penalties, but two late goals to France saw them pull away for a hard fought victory.

Result: France 7 def Netherlands 5

Ireland vs Germany, Dignitary Cup Semi-Final, Federation Square Pitch

Like the previous clash, this was another physical contest with neither team shirking the issue. Both teams went goal for goal in the first half even though the German’s star player Hans Dieter Hollnagel was suffering from a knee injury in an earlier clash. The game finished 3-all at half time with both ‘keepers responsible for a number of crucial saves. Germany looked to get on top early in the second half as they took advantage of an Irish sending off with two quick goals. The Germans were unable to continue their momentum as Ireland put the game the beyond doubt with the last goals to seal the win and to progress to the final with a 8-5 win.

Result: Ireland 8 def Germany 5

Nigeria vs Portugal, Dignitary Cup Semi-Final, Federation Square Pitch

This game got off to a tense start with the scoring chances few and far between. It wasn’t until the fourth minute that Nigeria opened the scoring with three quick goals and Portugal looked to be under siege. The Portuguese regrouped after being down 3-1 at half time to make a contest of it in the second half, thanks mainly to the efforts of their ‘keeper who made a number of stunning saves to keep his team in it. In the end the Portugal was unable to bridge the gap in what was an enthralling contest of great skill and Nigeria progressed to the final with a hard fought 5-4 win.

Result: Nigeria 5 def Portugal 4

Afghanistan vs Ghana, Homeless World Cup Semi-Final, Federation Square Pitch

This match promised to be a cracker as both teams went into the match in good form. It was a physical contest early with Ghana having the better chances early. However, it was the Afghanis who opened the scoring in a pulsating opening half. By the time the whistle had blown for half time, the Ghanaians had grabbed the lead by the slenderest of margins. The occasional rain was making the pitch slippery and some players were finding it difficult to keep their feet. The Afghanis almost won it in normal time, but with less than ten seconds on the clock, Ghana tied the game at 5-all and sent the game to penalties. However, their momentum wasn’t carried into the penalty shootout as they missed their first and third attempts, sending the many Afghanistan fans into delirium. Both teams however received a standing ovation from the crowd for their efforts in this exhilarating clash.

Result: Afghanistan 5 drew with Ghana 5 (Afghanistan won 2-1 on penalties)

Scotland vs Russia, Homeless World Cup Semi-Final, Federation Square Pitch

Both teams were feeling the pressure in this one early as the nerves showed. They were both relying on a patient build-up to score their goals and in an enthralling clash, scores were locked at 2-2 at the break. Russia started to get on top in the second half as the Scottish appeared to have already played their final in their previous clash against England. With less than two minutes left on the clock, both teams had a player sent off for a clash between the two. This didn’t help Scotland’s cause at all and Russia managed two more goals to put the game beyond doubt and a re-match with Afghanistan in the final.

Result: Russia 7 def Scotland 3

For the full results for the 2008 Homeless World Cup, click here.

Neil Zimmerman is the editor of the84thminute and also runs the Victory In Melbourne site. He also can be found at au.fourfourtwo.com where he writes a weekly column on the Melbourne Victory. On most weekends Neil can be found at a football match, be it either A-League, Victorian Premier League or a match that he happens to come across whilst walking his dogs.

Paraguay (w) vs Cameroon (w), Melbourne Pitch

You had to feel a little for these two teams as they battled it out in extreme heat in the middle of the day. The heat seemed to affect the Cameroonians more and the Paraguayans took full advantage racing to a 8-0 lead at half time with some excellent finishing. The second half was a much more sedate affair as the heat started to affect both teams and the Paraguayans could only add two more goals to their tally. Unfortunately for the Cameroonians they were unable to find their way past the resolute defence of their opponents.

Result: Paraguay 10 def Cameroon 0

Namibia vs Mexico, Federation Square Pitch

This match was played at much slower tempo than the usual street soccer game as both teams looked to conserve energy in the heat. It took a while for the Mexican domination of possession to result in goals but by midway through the first half they were four goals to the good. Namibia managed to pull one back, but the Mexicans responded quickly to take a 5-1 lead into half time. The second half was a much tighter affair as the teams exchanged goals. The poise of the Mexicans in front of goals was what really made the difference in this match as they ran out 9-5 winners in an excellent display.

Result: Mexico 9 def Namibia 5

Rwanda vs Philippines, Federation Square Pitch

Both these teams got off to a cracking start in this match as they went goal for goal. Neither team appeared to be affected by the heat with the Filipinos finishing the half the stronger to lead 4-3. The high tempo continued into the second half despite the heat with both looking to pick up an important win. The Rwandians put a scare through the Filipino camp with two late goals, but they responded with a late goal of their own to put the contest beyond doubt. A great contest from two teams giving it their all.

Result: Philippines 8 def Rwanda 5

Chile vs Timor-Leste, Federation Square Pitch

Chile opened the scoring in this one from penalty spot in a tight and tense opening. Their lead was short lived as they concealed a soft goal to allow the team from Timor-Leste back into the contest. The Chileans were trying to stretch their opponents and dominated possession, but it wasn’t until late in the half that they took the lead with two late goals. The tenseness of the contest continued well into the second half as the Chileans were unable to break down their opponents and in fact it was Timor-Leste that opened the scoring in the fifth minute of the half. The match ended in farce as two Chilean players received their marching orders within seconds of each late in the match, thus resulting in a forfeit.

Result: Timor-Leste 4 def Chile 3

Zimbabwe vs Ireland, Federation Square Pitch

This match started off in cracking fashion as both teams found the back of the net in quick succession. Ireland were playing a very physical brand of football in a bid to unsettle their quick and agile opponents and it appeared to be working as the Zimbabweans weren’t their usual fluid selves. Despite this, it was a high quality game with both teams going full throttle despite the heat. Zimbabwe struggled to break down a well organised Irish defence in the second half and the Irish were making the most of their limited scoring opportunities. Two late goals to the Zimbabweans gave the scoreboard a more respective look, but the Irish looked well in control for most of the game.

Result: Ireland 11 def Zimbabwe 7

Scotland vs Australia, Federation Square Pitch

Like many other games in this tournament, this match started off in fast and furious fashion with the Scottish grabbing two early goals. Not to be outdone the Australians hit back with two goals of their own in rapid succession to bring the scores back on level terms. It was an enthralling first half with the Australians looking to restrict their more fancied opponents. It was until the second half that Scotland put the game beyond reach of the Australians as their better organisation took its toll on their opponents.

Result: Scotland 7 def Australia 3

Portugal vs Brazil, Federation Square Pitch

This promised to be one of the matches of the tournament as both teams had played some scintillating football over the last week. It was evident quite early that this wasn’t going to be a goal feast as both teams looked intent on patient build up for their goals. It wasn’t until the sixth minute, that Portugal scored the only goal of an enthralling half to take a  1-0 lead into half time. Brazil came out firing in the second half and if it wasn’t for the efforts of the Portuguese keeper and the upright they could have very scored more than the two goals that ended up giving them the win.

Result: Brazil 2 def Portugal 1

For the full results for the 2008 Homeless World Cup, click here.

Neil Zimmerman is the editor of the84thminute and also runs the Victory In Melbourne site. He also can be found at au.fourfourtwo.com where he writes a weekly column on the Melbourne Victory. On most weekends Neil can be found at a football match, be it either A-League, Victorian Premier League or a match that he happens to come across whilst walking his dogs.

Photo credits: Victory In Melbourne on Flickr via the84thminute photo pool.

Zimbabwe vs Netherlands, Federation Square Pitch

Zimbabwe started off brightly in this one, scoring the opening three goals. The Netherlands then struck further problems as their ‘keeper went down clutching his leg after diving after the third goal and a replacement was soon sought. The Zimbabweans continued to run away from the Dutch team as they were too well drilled and organised for their opposition. Leading 8-0 at the break, the Zimbabweans went on with it the second half to run out comfortable 13-2 winners.

Result: Zimbabwe 13 def Netherlands 2

Australia vs South Africa, Federation Square Pitch

This match started in a tight and tense fashion and it took more than four minutes for South Africa to opening scoring. This was a lead that they maintained until the half time break with both teams’ defences rock solid. The game was still anyone’s midway through the second half and the Street Socceroos were left ruing a missed penalty as the South African got on top late in the game. They also had their ‘keeper to thank as he made a number of crucial saves to deny the Australians. In the end, the South Africans ran out 7-3 winners.

Result: South Africa 7 def Australia 3

Russia vs Afghanistan, Federation Square Pitch

This was always going to be an enticing clash with both teams performing well in the preliminary and in the end will probably go down as one of the games of tournament. Both the Russians and their counterparts played a high quality at a high tempo for the full fourteen minutes, keeping all the spectators on the edge of their seats. The Russians had the Afghanis on the back foot for most of the first half and lead comfortably 5-1 at the break due to some classy finishing. The game turned on its head in the second half as the Afghanistan team came charging back. With the urging of some quite vocal support they level the game up at 5-5. There was some even some controversy of the actual score as the scoreboard failed to register an Afghanistan goal. With a little over thirty seconds to go, the Afghanis completed their remarkable comeback to win 7-6, sending their supporters into delirium. It was like they had won a final.

Result: Afghanistan 7 def Russia 6.

France vs Lithuania, Federation Square Pitch

Compared to the previous game that played on this pitch, this was a rather sedate affair with the Lithuania preferring to build up their attacks slowly through precision passing. Most of the Lithuanian attacks went through their No.8, Rolandas Tvirbutas and he was the key to them in this on. Despite being 3-0 up at the break, the Lithuanians appeared to be tiring in the heat and the French, sensing this, went on the attack. However, the Lithuanians held firm and put the game beyond doubt with two late goals to make it a 6-2 win.

Result: Lithuania 6 def France 2

England vs Ireland, Federation Square Pitch

This loomed as one of the clashes of the day as the two traditional rivals faced off. England got off to the better start with four quick goals that left their looking decidedly flat footed. However, the Irish were soon back in the contest with two quick goals of their own. This was as good as got for Irish in the first half as the English quickly added two more to go into half time with a 6-2 advantage. You could sense the importance of this game to both teams as the tempo lifted in the second half and the Irish halved the deficit. Unfortunately for the Irish, England responded with two of their own to snuff out any chance of an Irish comeback and take out a 8-4 win.

Result: England 8 def Ireland 4

Germany vs Afghanistan, Melbourne Pitch

This match started off at a cracking pace as both teams traded goals for most of the first half. The Germans were taking it to their more fancied opponents, hitting them on the counter attack on numerous times and frustrated their more skilled opponents. With the defences of both teams not playing a huge role the game was tied at 4-4 at the half time break. The second half started off in similar way to the first as Germany again opened the scoring within seconds of the kick off. However, the tempo of the game had slowed and this allowed the Afghanistan team to use their skill to score four consecutive goals to take control of the game. The Germans scored late to add some drama to the contest but the Afghanis held on for 9-8 win.

Result: Afghanistan 9 def Germany 8

Kenya vs Hong Kong, Melbourne Pitch

This was a clash of contrasting styles with the brilliant, energetic skill of the Kenyans versus the solid, well organised team from Hong Kong. The Kenyans controlled possession early but it failed to show on the scoreboard as their opponents held firm and the match was tied 2-2 at half time. In the second half, the Kenyans showed their class outscoring their opponents seven goals to one and at times it looked they were playing with their opponents. It was a brilliant display of street soccer that saw them run out 9-3 winners.

Result: Kenya 9 def Hong Kong 3

England vs Zimbabwe, Melbourne Pitch

Like most games featuring these two teams, there was a high tempo opening and great exhibitions of skill. Zimbabwe were having the better of the opportunites but couldn’t find the back of the net in what was shaping up as an enthralling clash. Neither team gave an inch and the English had a narrow 2-1 lead when the teams changed ends. Three quick goals to the Zimbabweans early in the second half looked to have put them in charge of the match, but the English never gave up and levelled the scores at five apiece. The team from Zimbabwe grabbed the winner thirty seconds from time and thanks to some desparate defending held on for the win.

Result: Zimbabwe 6 def England 5

Poland vs Ghana, Melbourne Pitch

This match got off to a tight start as the Ghanaians dominated possession but couldn’t find a way through a resolute Polish defence. It wasn’t until the fifth minute that Ghana broke the deadlock with the only goal of the half. The team from Africa soon broke the game open in the second half with four quality goals. The Poles, with plenty of support behind them, got a late consolation goal but could do little to stop their opponents running out impressive winners and looming as a real danger in the latter stages of the tournament.

Result: Ghana 5 def Poland 1

Kenya vs Brazil, Melbourne Pitch

This match shaped as a fast paced, highly entertaining match and both teams didn’t disappoint as they traded goals early on. Both Kenya and Brazil were playing with great skill that had the crowd enthralled and cheering in admiration. The Brazilians scored late on in the first half to take a 5-4 lead into the break. In the second half Brazilian exerted their defensive influence to keep the Kenyans scoreless whilst they scored five of their own to run out 10-4 winners.

Result: Brazil 10 def Kenya 4

For the full results for the 2008 Homeless World Cup, click here.

Neil Zimmerman is the editor of the84thminute and also runs the Victory In Melbourne site. He also can be found at au.fourfourtwo.com where he writes a weekly column on the Melbourne Victory. On most weekends Neil can be found at a football match, be it either A-League, Victorian Premier League or a match that he happens to come across whilst walking his dogs.

Photo credits: Victory In Melbourne on Flickr via the84thminute photo pool.

Match Details
Result: Win 6-1
Goals: Mel (3), Caroline, Art, own goal
MPFC Player of the Match: Arturo

Here is a small snippet of the action from Day Three of the 2008 Homeless World Cup in Melbourne.

Russia vs Canada, Federation Square Pitch

Canada got off to a brilliant start in this match scoring the first goal, but that was as good as good as it got for the North Americans as they were steamrolled by the highly fancied Russian outfit. The Russians were simply too quick and too skilled for their opponents balanced with some killer finishing. The Russians are definitely a team to watch in the latter stages of the tournament.

Result: Russia 18 def Canada 6

Afghanistan vs Zimbabwe, Federation Square Pitch

This was one highly skilled, fast paced game that had the crowd on the edge of its seat. The Afghanis jumped their opponents early to lead 3-0, however the Zimbabweans soon clicked into gear to score the next four and lead 4-3 at the break. Both teams went goal for goal in the second half in an excellent exhibition of street soccer and the match ended 8-8 at full time. Like the game itself, the penalty shootout was full of drama. There were near misses and excellent saves by both keepers, but in the end the team from Afghanistan prevailed, much to the delight of their supporters, of which their were quite a few.

Result: Afghanistan 8 drew with Zimbabwe 8 (Afghanistan won 3-2 on penalties)

Australia vs Czech Republic, Federation Square Pitch

This match started off in frenetic fashion with the Australians setting the tone of the match with an early goal. The key moment in the match was when the Czech Republic had a man sent off for two minutes for a foul and the Australians took full advantage by scoring four goals whilst they had the man advantage. Leading 7-0 at half time, the Australians looked good for . The second half was a much more subdued affair where the defence of both teams worked extremely hard.

Result: Australia 9 def Czech Republic 3

Russia vs Netherlands, Melbourne Pitch

This was a very physical and combative match but the Russians showed why they are one of the tournament favourites with some classy finishing. The Dutch team were unable to find a way past a Russian team that was well drilled in both defence and attack.  The Russians made use of the minimal width of the pitch to spread the defence of their opposition to good effect and lead 5-0 at the break. The Dutch team showed  more commitment in a much closer second half, but the damage had already been done.

Result: Russia 10 def Netherlands 3

Greece vs Chile, Melbourne Pitch

With both teams spurred on by large groups of supporters this was always going to be a passionate and hard fought match. Both teams traded goals early in a game that showcased two contrasting styles. The Greeks played in a much more physical style whilst their much smaller opponents relied on speed and skill. Trailing 4-5 at the break the Chileans came out in inspired fashion in the second half but saw many of their shots coming flying back of the crossbar or upright. The Greeks were seconds away from victory in regular time when the Chileans finally found the back of the net to send the game to penalties. Unfortunately for the Chileans their inspiring finish didn’t carry over into the penalty shootout as they went down 2-1.

Result: Greece 6 drew with Chile 6 (Greece won 2-1 on penalties)

Portugal vs Rwanda, Melbourne Pitch

Portugal demonstrated in this clash with their African opponents why they are one of the competition favourites with classy and dominate display. The game was played at a fast and furious pace with the Rwandans unable to find a way through an organised Portuguese defence, that was backed up by an excellent and acrobatic goalkeeper. Despite trailing 1-6 at the break, the Rwandans didn’t take a backward step in the second half but the better finishing of their opponents proved too much in the end as they ran out 11-2 winners.

Result: Portugal 11 def Rwanda 2

Mexico vs Zimbabwe, Melbourne Pitch

After the teams went goal for goal early on in the match, the Zimbabweans stepped it up a gear to go into the half time break with a 6-2 advantage. Two early goals in the second half to the Mexicans saw them give their opponents some nervous moments. The Africans were able to withstand the onslaught and two late goals saw them put the game beyond doubt. The Zimbabweans will have plenty of support in the latter stages of the tournament as their entertaining style of play makes them a crowd favourite.

Result: Zimbabwe 8 def Mexico 5

The preliminary stage of the tournament came to a close today and the teams re-group for stage two on their journey towards the finals on Sunday. Early favourites for the Cup include Poland, Portugal and Russia with Australia also progressing through to section one of the next stage, by finishing third in their group.

For the full results for the 2008 Homeless World Cup, click here.

Neil Zimmerman is the editor of the84thminute and also runs the Victory In Melbourne site. He also can be found at au.fourfourtwo.com where he writes a weekly column on the Melbourne Victory. On most weekends Neil can be found at a football match, be it either A-League, Victorian Premier League or a match that he happens to come across whilst walking his dogs.

Photo credits: Victory In Melbourne on Flickr via the84thminute photo pool.

Here is a small snippet of the action from Day Two of the 2008 Homeless World Cup in Melbourne.

Brazil vs Ukraine, Melbourne Pitch

This match opened in frenetic fashion with the Ukraine team getting the better of their opponents early to jump quickly a 3-0 lead with their physical strength proving to be an advantage over their much smaller opponents. However, the Brazilians slowly got back into the game, displaying some of the skill that they are renowned for to only trail 3-2 at the break. It was an enthralling second half as the teams traded goals with the Ukrainians showing great poise to hold out their South American opponents.

Result: Ukraine 6 def Brazil 4

Argentina vs Timor-Leste, Melbourne Pitch

Argentina started this match off strongly dazzling their opponents with a combination of their skill on the ball and some classy finishes. However, the team from Timor-Leste weren’t to be outdone and showed plenty of endeavour to be only 6-4 down at the break thanks mainly to the efforts of Amaro da Silva, who scored most of, if not all of their goals for the match. In the second half both teams played at a frenetic pace with neither side giving an inch. Unfortunately, for Timor-Leste they were unable to bridge the gap on their opponents and went down 9-7.

Result: Argentina 9 def Timor-Leste 7

Hungary vs Ethiopia, Melbourne Pitch

This was a closely fought tussle with the ‘keepers of both teams making a number of excellent saves. Hungary jumped to an early lead before Ethiopia hit back to trail 3-2 at the break. In what was a high quality and enthralling match, the Hungarians showed that little bit extra class and the benefit of playing an extra game as they ran out comfortable winners in the end.

Result: Hungary 7 def Ethiopia 4

Nigeria vs Finland, Melbourne Pitch

This was another closely fought battle although the Finnish spent most of the first half camped in their own half of the pitch as the Nigerians struggled to break down their defence. Nigerian went into the half time break with a 2-1 after Finland responded to two early goals with a goal from the penalty spot. The second half started exactly as the first had finished with neither team giving an inch. Finland got to within a goal of their opponents, but two late goals to the Nigerians saw them run out comfortable winners. A team surely to watch in the latter stages of the competition and also a crowd favourite.

Result: Nigeria 5 def Finland 2

Norway vs Phillipines, Melbourne Pitch

As the teams lined up for the start of this match, it looked like a David vs Goliath clash as the Norwegians towered over their diminutive opponents. However, the Phillipines surprised many, including their opponents by quickly jumping to a 2-0 lead. The team from the Phillipines was making best use of their speed and agility against their much larger opposition, with Jay De Jesus causing headaches for the Norwegians throughout the match. It was one of the most entertaining matches of the tournament so far, the Norwegians strength and size advantage told in the end as they extended a 4-3 advantage at half time to 8-4 by the time the full time whistle blew.

Result: Norway 8 def Phillipines 4

Argentina vs Ukraine, Melbourne Pitch

With both teams coming off wins, this match started of in a tight and tense fashion and it took three minutes before the first goal was scored. The half finished in a flurry after the early cagey start as Ukraine let 4-2 at half time. The Ukrainians stepped it a gear after the break as the match got more physical and the Argentinians became increasingly frustrated and in the end ran out comfortable winners.

Result: Ukraine 9 def Argentina 3

India vs Finland, Federation Square Pitch

This was a tightly fought contest with neither team shirking from what was a very physical contest. Goal scoring opportunities were kept to a minimum and scores were tied at 1-1 at the break. The second half was exactly the same as the first with neither team taking a backward step. India thought they had killed the game off with a third goal with only twenty seconds to go in the match. However they got a scare as the Finnish scored their second almost straight away to make for a nervous couple of seconds for the team from the subcontinent.

Result: India 3 def Finland 2

Colombia (w) vs Cameroon (w), Federation Square Pitch

This was a match totally dominated by the diminutive Colombian women (none of them appeared to be over 5ft tall), who were much better skilled and organised than their African opponents. The score could have been a lot worse for the team from Cameroon if it wasn’t for the efforts of their ‘keeper who kept the scoring damage to a minimum. Colombia look like the team to beat in the woman’s competition.

Result: Colombia (w) 6 def Cameroon (w) 0

Brazil vs Argentina, Federation Square Pitch

Clashes between these two countries at any level are always ones to watch. However, its probably one that the Argentinians would like to forget in a hurry as they were completely dominated by a Brazilian team, who after their loss earlier in the day, was on top of its game and could do no wrong. The Argentinians were hampered by the fact that their number one ‘keeper was out of action and had to rely on a reserve. Whilst both teams showed great skill, it was the Brazilians that had the composure to finish off their moves. Hopefully, the team from Argentina can pick themselves up for the remainder of their games.

Result: Brazil 15 def Argentina 3

Australia vs Rwanda, Federation Square Pitch

This was another one of those fast and furious games, where both teams were evenly matched. After taking an early lead the Australians were soon on the back foot and it looked like they would be going into the half time break with a two goal deficit. But on the stroke of half time, Australia’s man of the match Coen Slaughter pulled one back to make the scores 3-2. With the crowd behind them, the Australians pushed for the winner but struggled to break down a resolute Rwandan defence and it wasn’t until the fifth minute of the second half that Slaughter completed his hat-trick to bring the game back on level terms. The match then looked to be heading for sudden death penalties, when pint sized Stevie Maloney popped up to slot one home with only thirty seconds on the clock, much to the delight of the home fans.

Result: Australia 4 def Rwanda 3

For the full results for the 2008 Homeless World Cup, click here.

Neil Zimmerman is the editor of the84thminute and also runs the Victory In Melbourne site. He also can be found at au.fourfourtwo.com where he writes a weekly column on the Melbourne Victory. On most weekends Neil can be found at a football match, be it either A-League, Victorian Premier League or a match that he happens to come across whilst walking his dogs.

Photo credits: Victory In Melbourne on Flickr via the84thminute photo pool.

Match Details
Result: Win 6-0
Goals: Joey (5), own goal
MPFC Player of the Match: Joey

Here is a small snippet of the action from Day One of the 2008 Homeless World Cup in Melbourne.

Australia vs Austria, Federation Square Pitch

The Street Socceroos knew they were on home turf when they entered the field of play as a raucous welcome greeted them in the opening match of the Homeless World Cup 2008 against Austria. The home side was under the pump early on and they needed a number of crucial saves from keeper, Lorenso Neghad to keep in the match early on. However, it was the Austrians who open the scoring in the third minute with a well taken goal. Late in the half, the home side looked to capitalise as the visitors had a player sent off for two minutes but failed to find the back of the net with Eddy Halid having the best opportunities.

Again early in the second half, Neghad was called into action to make two saves in rapid succession. The Australians started to show their frustration as they couldn’t find a way through the solid Austrian defence. These frustrations mounted as the Austrians scored two goals in rapid succession towards the end of the match to effectively kill the match off much to the disappointment of the home fans.

Result: Austria 3 def Australia 0

Scotland vs Afghanistan, Federation Square Pitch

This would be one of the matches of the day with both teams going goal for goal in what was pulsating match and an excellent advertisement for street soccer. The game was full of amazing skill, especially from the Afghanis who took it to the defending champions. Late in the match, it looked Scotland like would see off the challenge as they lead 5-4 but a late penalty to Afghanistan saw them take the game to sudden death penalties and then win it on the first two kicks of the resultant shootout. Both teams were duly applauded for a great match as they left the small arena.

Result: Scotland 5 drew with Afghanistan 5 (Afghanistan won on sudden death penalties)

Poland vs Hungary, Federation Square Pitch

Poland, the runners up from last year’s Homeless World Cup, looked very extremely impressive as they demolished their neighbours, Hungary and could very well go one better this time around. With the backing of some boisterous support the Poles never let their opposition into the game and it wasn’t until the last minute of the game that the Hungarians managed to score a consolation goal.

Result: Poland 11 def Hungary 1

Nigeria vs Italy, Federation Square Pitch

Like the earlier match between Scotland and Afghanistan, this match was full of drama with both sides playing a physical style of game. The Italians went two goals up, thanks to two long range efforts. The Nigerians, who fast becoming a crowd favourite, pulled a goal back late in the half as the Italians went into the half 2-1 up. The Nigerians took the lead shortly after the break with two quick goals, but were soon a man down for two minutes. The Italians capitalised on the man advantage scoring two goals in rapid succession and looked to have the match sown up. However, it was the Nigerians who came again and levelled the scores with only ten seconds remaining on the clock to send the match into sudden death penalties, which they duly won.

Result: Nigeria 5 drew with Italy 5 (Nigeria won on sudden death penalties)

Ireland vs USA, Federation Square Pitch

The Irish team put on a dominant display that surely would have any opposition worried about meeting them later in the tournament. Playing with great skill and an excellent passing game, they were simply too good for the United States team who were constantly under seige in their own half. The Irish lead 4-1 at the break and finished the game off in style to cruise to victory.

Result: Ireland 11 def USA 3

England vs Sweden, Federation Square Pitch

A brilliant early goal from England’s Ryan Nash set the tone for this match as the English simply had too much class for their Swedish opponents. This was probably the most dominant performance of the day as the English thrilled the crowd with their brilliant ball control and fierce shooting that had the team from Sweden camped in their own half for the vast majority of the game. Based on this performance the English should surely make it to the latter stages of the tournament.

Result: England 14 def Sweden 1

Hong Kong vs Romania, Federation Square Pitch

It what was a closely fought battle, the team from Hong Kong came out on top purely due to their better organisational and finishings. The Romanians dominated possession early but couldn’t find they way past a solid Hong Kong defence. Hong Kong made their opponents pay for their wastefulness with some clinical finishing that left the Romanians extremely frustrated and ran out deserved winners.

Result: Hong Kong 5 def Romania 3

For the full results for the 2008 Homeless World Cup, click here.

Neil Zimmerman is the editor of the84thminute and also runs the Victory In Melbourne site. He also can be found at au.fourfourtwo.com where he writes a weekly column on the Melbourne Victory. On most weekends Neil can be found at a football match, be it either A-League, Victorian Premier League or a match that he happens to come across whilst walking his dogs.

Photo credit: The Homeless World Cup