Joy for Blackburn Rovers skipper as New Zealand reach World Cup (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Joy for Blackburn Rovers skipper as New Zealand reach World Cup

1:10pm Monday 16th November 2009

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RYAN Nelsen admitted it was a dream come true after guiding New Zealand to next year’s World Cup finals in South Africa.

The Blackburn Rovers captain led New Zealand to a memorable 1-0 play-off win over Bahrain in front of 35,000 fans in Wellington, a record attendance for a match in the country.

“It’s a dream come true,” said the 32-year-old who was outstanding in the heart of the New Zealand defence.

“The crowd was incredible and I don’t know if we could have won it without them.

“I am lucky enough to have done some pretty good things in the sport but I have never done it in front of the New Zealand fans.”

New Zealand reached their first World Cup finals since 1982 courtesy of Rory Fallon’s 44th minute headed goal.

Nelsen added: “All the local lads were incredible. They played really well and won us the game.”

Other Rovers players certain of making the World Cup finals are South African duo Benni McCarthy and Elrio van Heerden, and Australian pair Brett Emerton and Vince Grella.

Rovers chairman John Williams said: “It’s absolutely brilliant for Ryan.

"I’m delighted for him. New Zealand are a small footballing country, but I know that Ryan is considered their main man.”

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