Socceroos to benefit Canberra A-League?

So 70,000 watched the Socceroos v China last week and only 48,000 filed in to the same stadium on Saturday, some on free tickets, to watch the Wallabies take on World Cup finalists France.

Interesting times. But does it have any benefits to the Canberra A-League bid? Yes it does, and here's three Canberra anecdotes to start you thinking.

"Where are we going Mum?" Asked the fourteen year old girl on Sunday afternoon as Mum drove along Northbourne Avenue, Canberra.

"We're going to Sydney," replied the Mum.

The Mum looked in the mirror. She could see her daughter's expression, puzzled, Very puzzled. The girl put her book down and looked out of the window.

"SYDNEY!" she shouted, "I thought you said we were just nipping to Woolies.

"What are we going to Sydney for?"

"To watch the Socceroos."

The girl beamed. The Mum, A Rugby League fan, had never been to a football game, let alone a Socceroos game. Her daughter loves and plays football. She loves the Socceroos.

And the verdict:
"It was fantastic, the chanting all through the game was great. We'll be back!"

ANECDOTE 2
Sitting watching girls Under 10 football at Majura SC Canberra a mother of one of our new players walked up. The mum, Jane, has never been to a football game, never played, and her kids have only just started this year.

We chat, discuss the daughters improving performances and how much she is enjoying her first season.

The Mum, I've a thing for Mum's clearly, said, "Tell me about the World Cup Qualifiers. I've an Iranian friend at work and he's going off about Iran. Tell me what happens now. I'd love to go to a Socceroos game."

My jaw dropped! And I've not doubt she will!

Anecdote 3
"Hey Eamonn, my man, going to the Socceroos China game?" said Azurri supporting friend.
"Why?"
"Kate, (15 year old daughter who attends an all girl school in Canberra) wants to go!"

Now if that is happening across this city, and I believe it is, clearly there is a supporter base to be tapped for a Canberra A-League side.

What do you think?