World Cup Nonsense

[Nigel]

I was with you in allegiance, Sweder. Ever since the days of Total Football, I've been hoping in vain that Holland might win the World Cup one day. After Cruyff's time, the various days of Gullit, Rijkard, Seedorf, van Basten and Bergkamp have each sadly failed to deliver all that much more than spit wafting on a summer breeze towards Rudi Voller.

Holland seem to have the more accomplished goalkeeper this time in van der Sar, but beyond that there doesn't look to be that much between the teams. Solid defence for Holland and a strong midfield line-up for England, with disappointment in other areas all around.

As long as the woodwork keeps working for both countries as it did both last night and tonight, then the two teams must each have a chance this time.

Which is perhaps another way of saying that without such plucky interventions from the crossbar, posts, side- and roofnetting, I fear we'll both be swiftly sunk ...