Media backs fighting Socceroos

BRISBANE, Australia - The Australian media swung firmly behind the national football team Thursday despite the Socceroos bowing out of the World Cup at the group stage.

Australia missed out on the second round of the World Cup on goal difference due largely to the 4-0 thrashing they received at the hands of Germany in their opening Group D match.

After launching a tirade of abuse at coach Pim Verbeek and, to a lesser extent, the players after the Germany loss, local media began to warm to the Socceroos following their 1-1 draw with Ghana.