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Cahill responds to his ageist critics

The Aussie press are talking up Tim Cahill's substitute appearance for the Socceroos as a stirring return to the Cahill of old, winning every header that came his way in a 'pulsating' 1-1 draw with Japan.

But the fact that he failed to score despite having numerous chances echoed more his recent form for Everton.

After the game, he said, "I enjoyed it tonight, the lads enjoyed it, it was just unfortunate we didn't get the result."

"The thing is I create chances and I score goals. Tonight I was unfortunate but (I'm a) team player."

It took him just six minutes to make an impact, chesting down a long ball, turning expertly to the left and firing off a shot which goalkeeper Eiji Kawashima blocked.

Cahill continued to win each header which came his way and was equally impressive at the other end of the pitch to thwart the crisp and creative visitor.

He moved into the midfield when Mark Milligan was controversially sent off in the 56th minute after a dubious second yellow card, and continued to have an influence with tiring legs.

A penalty to Luke Wilkshire, one of six 2006 World Cup players who started, ensured the draw and Cahill was quick to hit out at critics of the "ageing" Australians after the final whistle.

"I'm bored of it, I've said it before, I'm bored of listening to that sort of stuff," he roared.

"The thing is we play for our country because we love it and we don't play here to get bagged. They should support football and stop bagging us."

Quotes or other material sourced from The World Game

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