Horns and Howlers

The buzz is upon us and until July 11th I'm not sure another sound will penetrate my consciousness.

The vuvuzelas, or horns, have overpowered the World Cup in more ways than one. On television, it is the only thing you can hear. The TV commentators are drowned out by the incessant plastic "music" maker. A beautiful noise for the beautiful game is the mantra of organizers, I'm not sold. Yes, I'm a purist and love the singing and music in stadiums made by instruments not made of plastic.

And, now for the howlers. Goalkeeping is an art and at this World Cup, it is a lost art. Well, except for the exception of the USA goalkeeper Tim Howard. Both England and Algeria were made to pay for goalkeeper gaffes and the results of the damage will be seen in two more games for both teams. I still believe England will push but the nerves are edgy at best now for the Three Lions and their fans faces show it.

So, after three days and three groups have started off, what can we tell? The USA are an organized side that will use teamwork to try an achieve victory. Australia are a mess and the Germans took full advantage. Messi continues to struggle for the national team but Argentina are still a very dangerous side.  The referees are ready to hand out cards like candy at Halloween. Ghana look like a possible African team to advance and maybe more, not what I saw going into the tournament with the experience Australia possess but the Socceroos seem to have little direction. Coaching, coaching, and more coaching looks to be making a negative impact on Australia. In Group A, Mexico and South Africa's tie may be key to both teams moving into the round of 16. France look horrid with Uruguay not much better. Add to that the French Captain complaining about the vuvuzelas and excuses will continue to rain down from the emotionless French. Finally, day three saw three red cards. The first time that has happened since 1966.

Three days, three groups, what to look for next-Spain, the Dutch, the Group of Death and the reigning Champions-Italy. Spain will dazzle and the Group of Death will entertain but Italy will fizzle and let's all hope the goals begin to come. At the moment, the goals are going in at about half of the rate that the 2006 World Cup provided. The best is yet to come. Peace.