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Australia's coach Pim Verbeek reacts from the sideline. AP Photo/Ermindo Armino
The Socceroos-era under Pim Verbeek has been one of the biggest talking points in Australia’s footballing history. Sadly, the employment of Pim Verbeek was one of the worst ever made for Australia.
Pim Verbeek has single-handedly lowered the quality of football played by our Socceroos, used players who shouldn’t be allowed within 20 yards of the Green and Gold, and broken down Australia’s sporting culture.
Although many argue that the results have been good, that is not the be all and end all in the game of football.
Look at Real Madrid and Brazil, for example.
Dunga is somewhat unpopular because Brazil aren’t playing the beautiful football that they traditionally do, while Fabio Capello was sacked after winning the Spanish title, because they didn’t play good football.
The fact that opinions on Verbeek vary so much suggests that he isn’t good enough.
Criticism of Guus Hiddink tenure was almost non existent. In fact, a recent fan poll by the 442 Magazine found that 42 percent of people didn’t want Verbeek to remain in charge.
That’s saying something.
An indication of the opinion about the Socceroos’ performances is that crowds are lower. Brisbane hosted three games under Pim Verbeek: the first was a sell out, but from then on it went south: 34,000 Vs Qatar, 20,000 Vs Indonesia.
Evidently, the fans aren’t enjoying the games as much.
Secondly, two words, Brett Holman.
He hasn’t scored for three years, nor has he been credited with an assist. In fact, statistics found that the Socceroos’ scoring percentage was considerably less while he was on the park.
The fact that Nick Carle is on the bench while Holman plays makes you feel sick.
Anybody with half a neuron can tell that Nick Carle is a footballer and Holman isn’t. It’s a complete disgrace.
Finally, Verbeek has completely ignored the Australian way.
Isn’t it an Australian motto to “Have a Go?” Verbeek has forced his European way upon us.
Australians are known for their gutsy efforts and commitment. Sitting back and defending against Holland in a Friendly on our own turf? That isn’t “Having a Go.”
What did we have to lose?
We now play like Italy, a team we despised so deeply after 2006. Look at what Hiddink did in 2006.
We attacked every team we played, we actually wanted to score goals, and we did.
Verbeek has a Plan A – which is to defend with everyman behind the ball. He has no Plan B.
Every game, no matter the situation, we play the same dull football. I shudder to think how we will go in South Africa should we need to win a game to progress.
The employment of Verbeek has been a nightmare for football in this country. His arrogant dull methods of coaching will inevitably be exposed in South Africa.
As for his replacement when he leaves, Rijkaard as head coach and Neeskens as his assistant would be a dream.
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