Australia defeated Venezuela in its final pool game this morning (Thursday) 9 goals to 1. That victory guaranteed Australia, as a minimum, an opportunity to progress to the medal rounds of the World Cup.
Australia started the game this morning with plenty of control and patience. The first goal was not scored until the 15th minute when leading point scorer of the tournament Dean Dunstan slipped one past the Venezuela goal keeper. From the ensuing face off, Stephen Belic scored and within another two minutes Dean Dunstan scored his second goal of the game.
Half time Australia 3 Venezuela 0.
With the resumption of play Australia scored again through the efforts of Dean Dunstan. For the remaining time in the game Australia just controlled all facets of the game and never looked in danger of losing. A procession of goals followed with goals by Kyle Smith (his first of the tournament), Stephen Belic, Anthony Collins, Dean Dunstan with the final goal scored by Chris Brophy.
Venezuela was able to score a consolation goal in the last 90 seconds of the game with the final score Australia 9 Venezuela 1.
Australia had to then wait for the outcome of the next game between Mexico and Argentina to see if they were to progress to the final eight in the world or whether they were to play for a medal in the World Cup division. Australia needed Argentina to either win or have a score draw. That was not to be with the final result being Mexico 6 Argentina 4. In fact that win allowed Mexico to leap frog Germany and be top of pool C.
Based on results and head to head outcomes, Australia has finished fourth in C pool (Great Britain finished third) which now means a semi final game against Columbia tomorrow morning. Australia played Columbia in an exhibition game before the world championships commenced and were victorious on that occasion. However, all in the Australian camp know that this means nothing and Australia will not be under estimating their opposition.
Live streaming of Australia's game against Columbia can be viewed on www.beroun2010.com