02 July 2010 16:30
An All White legend speaks about the 2010 World Cup
Steve Sumner, captain of the 1982 All Whites side that was the first Kiwi team to make it to the World Cup, chatted to New Zealand Times about the All Whites’ performance at the 2010 event, and why he will be playing before tomorrow’s Quarter final
editor@newzealandtimes.co.uk
How would you compare this team, to your team in 1982, in terms of how they performed to New Zealand’s expectations?
Well, they’ve exceeded all expectations, and certainly those that were on the outside of the team, and I count myself in that. But the guys on the inside of the team said they were looking, first of all, to gain some points. I think they gained some confidence from the warm-up game against the Aussies. When we had our first side on the pitch, we were beating them 1-0. After we lost in the second half, I think you could see in their faces, that a decent performance wasn’t enough. I though they did exceedingly well. I was disappointed, however, that Slovakia scored a goal from offside because the linesman couldn’t keep up, and that Italy cheated their way to a draw against us.
What has the World Cup 2010 experience been like?
I was here for the opening ceremony, and that was my first taste of vuvuzelas. I think that is part of the game in South Africa, and I coped with that. I think its been a stunning World Cup. When I listen to the local radio stations here, it seemed like they couldn’t talk about anything else except for how good the World Cup was. It made them proud to be South Africans.
How do you feel about being awarded the FIFA order of Merit?
Well, New Zealand football nominated me, so it wasn’t a surprise, but it was pleasing to know that they considered me worthy. To find out it had gone through, and you look at the list of people who have won that award. The likes Nelson Mandela, and Beckenbauer and Bobby Charlton, well some of those people were my childhood heroes. So of course you’re humbled and privileged. I know there are a lot of people who have given as much to New Zealand football as I have, and they could be here, doing what I’m doing. From my team-mates to my wife, everyone has been really supportive.
How did you get involved in the Unity Cup?
Well I got an invitation from Tim shriver. At that stage I’d already left South Africa, but to try and help make a difference in someone’s life, was a valid reason for me to fly back.
How important is it to you to give those with learning disabilites a platform to be seen, heard, and accepted?
Last night, so sit there in a function with all these Special Olympics athletes standing up, telling you who they were, and where they were from, it actually bought a tear to your eye. To know that their self-esteem has been lifted immeasurably is what it’s all about. I think I’m gonna take away more from this, than I’m giving. And I’m trying hard to do as much as I can here.
Former All-Whites Captain, Steve Sumner is in Cape Town, South Africa to show his support for the Special Olympics ‘Unity Cup’.On Saturday 3 July, an incredible roster of celebrities and football legends will take to the field alongside 16 learning disabled footballers in Cape Town Stadium at 2pm, to showcase the Special Olympics Unified Sports® Programme.
For more information, please visit: www.specialolympics.org/unitycup