Socceroos bow out of World Cup, Italians through

And so it was, Australia are out of the World Cup to a dubious last minute penalty. Basically, an act of simulation by Grasso, referee fell for the con job and awarded the penalty. Overall though, the Italian team had the better clear cut chances to win the match, Socceroos failed to make their numerical advantage count, after Matarazzi was sent off for a straight red card. They paid for it with their lack of adventure to go for the winning goal.

But there is plenty of sympathetic support for the Socceroos.

Independent British press labels the penalty 'questionable' and 'dubious'.

But the Socceroos heads are held high, exceeding their expectations to score a goal and earn a point from these World Cup finals. Good on ya. Go Go Go Socceroos.