Lucas Neill thanks Australia

Socceroo Lucas Neill today thanked the Australian public for its incredible support during the team’s campaign in Germany.

Despite the dramatic end to round two of the competition, Neill received more than 2000 HeroMessagesВ® from fans showing their support following the loss to Italy on Tuesday morning.

More than 31,000 HeroMessages were sent during the Socceroo’s campaign in Germany.

Describing the whole situation since the end of the game as overwhelming, Neill has been buoyed by the support from home.

“The last few days have been an emotional rollercoaster for me and the whole team,” Neill commented.

“To know that so many people have taken the time to personally send me a message of support has helped soften the blow of the result, but it will still take some time to get over.”

“It is great to know that despite the result, the whole country was behind us, and we truly appreciate every word of support we have received. Thank you Australia!”

Telstra spokesperson Warwick Ponder said that the support from the Australian fans had prompted Telstra to keep the HeroMessage service open.

“Due to an overwhelming response to Lucas and the rest of the team, Telstra has decided to extend the HeroMessage service for another week, allowing sports fans to show the Socceroos that they are behind them no matter what the result,” Mr Ponder said.

Football Federation Australia’s Head of Commercial Operations, John O’Sullivan thanked Telstra for their support.

“FFA understands that this is the first time Telstra has rolled out HeroMessage for a single sport and football is proud to have been chosen.”

HIGHLIGHT MESSAGES FOR LUCAS NEILL:

* Be proud Lucas! U didn’t deserve to go out like that. I’ve just cried for
an hour straight at seeing your face after the decision. Your my fav &
always will be
Sender: Natalie

* Dishonesty and unfair play is not ur burden to carry-strength, dignity,
a dedication is what makes u truly a remarkable and deserving player-NEVER
GIVE IN!!! xoxo
Sender: Arlene

* When you are tired and weary
and a long way from home
You can reach for Australia
and you shall not walk alone.
Sender: SD

* Lucas Neill seeing your face on the screen made by eyes brim with tears.
You’re a fantastic player nad have outstanding defence. I feel so much
sympathy for you
Sender: Joanna

* Don’t be sad for something you can’t control. You can’t control the mistakes
of others. You are our man of the series and our hero. Be proud, stand tall.
Sender: Donna

* LUCAS Keep your chin up – you’ve made a legend of yourself, and no Spanish
referee will ever remove the memory of your courage and class from our hearts.
Sender: David

* Lucas neill-how special r u?U have scored so many life long fans…Dont
worry bout that BAD call, u should b so proud of urself. u will b captain
sum day. kal
Sender: Kal

* Can’t sleep but sweetie – U R a CHAMP! U have done us all proud! Even tho
u wear number 2, U will always be my number ONE! Chin up & C U down under
soon xxxx
Sender: Kylie

* A few months ago I’d never heard of socceroos. Now behind tired eyes I’m checking out the competition. My husband is proud. I’m a Lucas groupie. Good luck.
Sender: Peri

Australians can continue to send the Socceroos a message by logging onto www.heromessage.telstra.com or sending their message by SMS/MMS to 0428 MY HERO (standard SMS / MMS rates apply).

Tags: Australia, MMS, Operators, Premium Services, Regional, SMS, Telstra

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