Belgium (9) v (3) Australia Reserves

By Woody Sabran

THE first match of the last day of play on the Yarra pitch, began perfectly for both sides. Bright sunshine, a cooling breeze and an enthusiastic crowd!

Belgium and the Australian reserves both arrived early and proceeded to pass a ball around, warming up for the match that would see one of them take home the trophy for 5th place in the INSP networking Cup.

The Aussie team held the Aboriginal flag high as the national anthems were played, the crowd joined in with the players, singing along with gusto, a genuinely special moment for all in attendance.

A familiar face in goal for the Aussies, the one and only Vanni, let's see what he can do this morning!

And we're off - within seconds of the referees whistle for kick-off the Belgians scored two goals in quick succession, the first by Serge, the second by Claudia, who cleverly sent the ball through the legs of Vanni.

A shot by Diana for the Belgians forced a great reactionary save from Vanni. The first goal for the Aussies quickly followed, a smart strike by Scott, the score 2-1 to Belgium at 3 mins in to the game.

A second goal by Josh followed shortly, the scores now even.

What followed next was a breathtaking demonstration of skill by the Belgians, Claudia scored his second goal in style, really entertaining the crowd.

At the end of the first half, Belgium showed their strength, passing the ball back and forth and setting up Diana for a solid strike on goal, the score now 4-2.

The second half began with continued pressure by the Belgians, Serge quickly scoring Belgians fifth goal. Claudia and Diana followed suit, the score now 7-2 two minutes in to the second half.

Whatever the score you have to hand it to the Aussies, they continued to make it difficult for Belgium, Vanni vigilant as ever in goal.

Pedro scored his first for Belgium with 3 minutes left on the clock, the score now 8-2.

Serge was pulling out all the stops, another goal made the score 9-2.

After a solid build up, PJ Streeton for Australia got the last goal of the match, the final score 9-3 to Belgium.

As the whistle blew, the players embraced each other, the spirit of the Homeless World Cup never more evident. Players from both sides lined up to receive their medals, the Belgian captain received the plate for 5th place in the INSP cup. As the press took photos, Belgian player Pedro lifted a sign with the remark 'Belgium thanks Melbourne!', Belgium we thank you!

Photos: Photoworx