Rugby legend calls for Matildas to avenge painful 2003 World Cup loss to England
In an emotional interview, former dual international Mat Rogers expresses his lingering pain over Australia’s devastating loss to England in the 2003 Rugby World Cup final. Rogers, who has never been able to bring himself to watch a replay of the game, vividly remembers Jonny Wilkinson’s heartbreaking drop goal that sealed England’s 20-17 victory at Stadium Australia.
Reflecting on the traumatic defeat, Rogers admits it is not a fond memory for him. However, he now hopes that the Matildas, Australia’s women’s soccer team, can exact a measure of revenge on behalf of the Wallabies and the entire nation. As the Matildas prepare for their Women’s World Cup semi-final against the England Lionesses, Rogers believes this is the perfect opportunity for redemption.
Wednesday night’s clash between Australia and England at Stadium Australia is being hailed as the most significant sporting contest between the two nations since that fateful November night 20 years ago. Rogers, who still loses sleep over his missed opportunity to change the course of history, emphasizes the significance of defeating the “old enemy.”
While the Matildas face a strong challenge from the Lionesses, who have never progressed past the semi-final stage of a World Cup, Rogers remains hopeful. He understands the pain of losing on the grandest stage, as he and the Wallabies experienced it firsthand in 2003. However, with his 15-year-old daughter playing soccer and aspiring to be a Matilda, Rogers is fully invested in the team’s journey.
Drawing parallels between the patriotic support for the Matildas and the fervor that surrounded the Wallabies in 2003, Rogers highlights the underdog nature of both teams. He recalls how, despite being overshadowed by the All Blacks earlier in the season, the Wallabies fueled excitement by defeating their archrivals in the semi-finals. The country united around the team, creating an electric atmosphere.
Rogers envisions a similar outcome for the Matildas, noting the irony of a potential victory over England on penalties. While not the ideal way to win, he believes that any triumph against the old rivals would be cherished. Rogers’s passion for the Matildas extends beyond simply being a spectator, as he has engaged with the players and attended other matches leading up to the World Cup.
As Australia braces for the highly anticipated semi-final showdown, Rogers sends a message of support and encouragement to the Matildas. He hopes they can overcome the pain of the past and create a new legacy by securing a spot in the final.
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