Two decades on, the memory of John Aloisi's legendary penalty kick that sent the Socceroos to the 2006 World Cup remains one of Australian sport's most iconic moments. But for one Newcastle Jets legend who was there, the overwhelming emotion was one of relief at not being involved on the pitch.
The Bench Perspective on History
Joel Griffiths, a key figure in Newcastle Jets history, has opened up about his unique experience during that fateful night of November 16, 2005, when Australia ended 32 years of World Cup drought. Griffiths was part of the Socceroos squad for both legs of the qualifier against Uruguay but found himself with a front-row seat rather than on the field.
"I was s---ting myself and I wasn't even playing," Griffiths confessed to the Newcastle Herald. "I can only imagine how the guys in the shootout felt. I remember looking over at the Uruguayan players who were not playing. I swear they wanted to punch on. The death stares were incredible."
The Jets legend revealed this might be the only match in his career where he felt genuine relief at not being selected. "It is probably the only game - and I hate myself for it - that I was happy not to be on the pitch. I just didn't want to let anyone down."
Pandemonium and Penalty Drama
The decisive moment came with Australia leading 3-2 in the penalty shootout when Aloisi stepped up for the fifth and potentially final spot kick. His left-foot thunderbolt flew past Uruguayan keeper Fabian Carini, sparking wild celebrations among the 83,000 fans at Sydney's Olympic Stadium and millions more watching nationwide.
Griffiths described the immediate aftermath with vivid clarity. "I ran on and nearly ripped a hammy," he recalled. "I think I ran to Mark Schwarzer. He was immense and saved two penalties."
The Newcastle star highlighted the crucial preparation that preceded the historic victory. "We practiced penalties the night before at training. I remember looking at Schwarzer and thinking how big is this guy."
Surreal Celebrations and Star Encounters
Contrary to expectations, the dressing room atmosphere immediately after the match was surprisingly subdued. "It was surreal in the shed afterwards. The beers were out but everyone was spent. I have seen bigger celebrations in my over 40s team. It was just a huge sense of relief. The players were so drained."
That all changed when an unexpected guest arrived. "Once John Travolta came in, it broke the ice," Griffiths revealed. "We started singing Grease songs."
Griffiths, who was contracted to Leeds United at the time, reflected on the quality of that historic Socceroos squad. "That was a crazy good team. I was in awe of them, to be honest. Harry Kewell was one of my all-time favourites. I remember Mark Viduka put his arm around me when I got into camp. He kept calling me Axl Rose and I still don't know why."
Hiddink's Masterstroke and Montevideo Madness
The Jets legend saved particular praise for coach Guus Hiddink, describing the Dutch tactician as "a freak" who commanded respect through his no-nonsense approach. "Everyone was intimidated by him. If you didn't do what he wanted, there were no second chances."
Griffiths recalled the intense atmosphere during the first leg in Montevideo, where the team faced significant psychological warfare. "The senior guys knew what to expect in Montevideo. They set off fireworks in front of our hotel at 2am the night before the game. We weren't allowed to leave the floor of our hotel. We had armed security at the hotel."
Looking back, Griffiths recognises the strategic genius behind Hiddink's methods. "It was a get in, get out approach. At the time, you didn't realise all these things were going on and why. Looking back now, it was a masterstroke by Guus."
Despite his minimal involvement in the actual match, Griffiths remains humble about his place in Australian football history. "I get sheepish about being involved in something where I didn't play," he admitted. His greatest satisfaction now comes from sharing the moment with the next generation. "The thing I love the most is when my kids watch that stuff."
