Australians proud to prove critics wrong

BANGKOK, July 17 (Reuters) Australia's players have lashed out at their critics after yesterday's Asian Cup win over Thailand, saying media speculation of a rift within the squad had spurred them on.

Reports of a split in the camp had begun circulating after the Socceroos' 3-1 loss to Iraq in their second Group A match had threatened to end their campaign early.

The team angrily dismissed the claims but said they had provided the motivation needed to crush Thailand 4-0 in their last group match and advance to the quarter-finals.

''We've copped a lot of crap off everybody and I'm happy with the response,'' Australia captain Mark Viduka told reporters today.

''We were all obviously disappointed with our performances but I think we should be criticised for the way we performed.

''I think some people criticised other things apart from our performances, which is disappointing.'' Midfielder Tim Cahill also took at swipe at the media's criticism of the team.

''I think a lot of you will be eating your words. It is a reward to us,'' the Everton playmaker said.

''It is just difficult for the players to hear that things were going on. We have come together tonight, unified, and got a result.

''It has made us stronger inside the camp. Now they will be able to concentrate on the football and not things going on elsewhere.'' Coach Graham Arnold, whose future in the job has also been the subject of media speculation in Australia, said the players had put the turmoil of the past few days behind them and were now fully focused on Saturday's quarter-final against Japan in Hanoi.

Japan have won the last two Asian Cups but were beaten 3-1 by Australia at the World Cup in Germany a year ago.

''The boys know there will be a revenge coming from Japan but the motivation levels from our players will be enormous because we've reached our first goal to get through the group,'' Arnold said.

''Japan are in great form, they've won 4-1 against Vietnam, they are going to be a very difficult opponent, but I'm very confident.'' Reuters DH GC1631