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Location Date Cologne 
1309906800 Bochum 1309561200 Düsseldorf 1309302000 Göttingen 1308438000 Leverkusen -
Location Date Wed, 06 July 2011 1309950715 Wed, 06 July 2011
1309943862
At the half-way mark of the game against Equatorial Guniea, I learned first- hand how difficult it can be to control emotions, especially when they (emotions) are so responsive to physical actions.
There have been some situations throughout the World Cup campaign where some senior players have acted quite inappropriately when substituted. Observed from a distance one could ask "what example does this set for the player replacing you, that is, does "doing your lolly" provide the right support?"
It is all very well to have an opinion as a detached observer but, when I was the player confronted by the reality of (forced) substitution, I was initially upset when Doc ruled me out of the second half but I tried as best as I could to conceal that disappointment from the whole squad. While suffering bitter personal disappointment I wanted to show exemplary strength and belief in: my team-mates; in the medical staff and; the team coaches. That trust issue again….we are nearly there but, if everyone embraces the concept the sky is the limit.
There was an obvious handball...and I probably don't need to add to the debate other than to point it out as a perfect case of football's innate lesson - "Life isn't fair".
There is not much time between games and time for me post game has been devoted to laying on my back with my injured calf elevated and iced. This has paid off as my cork has now calmed down enough and I will be warming up today for the match with the girls.
A great win from a very physical game with most bodies bruised & (slightly) battered. But, we are in the right hands though with Kate Beerworth and Lauren Cramer... Work your magic ladies.
For now... our destiny is very much in our hands! A win against Norway (or a draw) will get us through to the quarters.
Today, games like these. We thrive. Yearn for opportunities to showcase our talent on the world stage. Its too early in our World Cup campaign for the Matildas to part ways.
This is real.
- comments
Steven Macca I have been enjoying your blogs Ships. Trust will bring the belief - and yeah one game at a time. Wishing you and the squad all success.
Iesha de Andrade Heey Sal :) Remember me?? It's Iesha....!! just incase you don't remember me: you know my dad...Will used to work for my dad bla bla bla! ANYWAYS I've been watching your games and you snd the girls are playing REALLY wel!! I really hope you beat norway and bring home the world cup trophy!! And thanks for your support at Nationals ;) Goodluck xx
Emily Hill Hi Sally! It's emily, we mett* at the farewell - the same one who gave you the nail polish and called you a footballing yuppie ;), lol. I just wanted to say, I've loved reading your blog - you are incredibly engaging! The use of social media throughout the tournament has left us fans with a real sense of what it is like for you guys, even if most of us will never experience anything like it. I'm not sure that I am supposed to respond to the blog as such, but I will to the extent that I say that you have incredible sportsmanship - even under pressure. You are constantly the player with the smile, ever supportive and confident on and off the field - you handle yourself with grace. No-one other than yourselves, and past players can know what any of this feels like - it must be such a strange paradigm to operate in. Trying to experience everything you can while feeling immense pressure and getting a job done. I don't envy you, but you can take comfort in knowing that the joy you give to the footballing community is immense. Everything Tommy wanted from this tournament he has achieved! Great results, an attractive style of play and an ever increasing fan bandwagon. The girls should be incredibly proud and the fans will be behind you no-matter what! Good Luck tonight! A special mention to Servet who is incredible and will do an amazing job! :) Best Wishes Xo Emily
Dennis FCBA Well...you encounted a speed hump in the first game, re-grouped to win the second game, now your third game will come down to speed and fitness. What you say is true, our destiny is very much in our hands! A win against Norway (or a draw) will get us through to the quarters. I have no doubt that you will keep "Walsing Matildas".
nikki shipard Sal, we will be up at 2am watching, hoping and barracking for you all -- xx from nik, rick & finn (who will still be in bed!)
Martin Kruse Been to Bochum and attended the match. Some scenes were even painfull to watch from the stands. Especially the scene that led to your injury ... All the best for the Norway match and hopefully for three more. Go Matildas!