Thousands of miles from home, CSUB soccer player Curtis Miley spent his summer in Bakersfield for the World Cup — even if it meant being surrounded by American fans while cheering for Australia.
Miley, who is from Australia, watched the match with his brother, Kelby, at Bakersfield Beer Company as the United States beat Australia, 2-0. Curtis Miley said he quickly realized he was outnumbered at the watch party.
“When we first passed and I saw all the American shirts, I was like: Oh Dear. Here we go. I mean I should have expected it, but it’s cool. It’s funny. Not something I’m used to, but yeah,” Curtis Miley said.
The brothers also took some friendly teasing, including a reference to the stereotype about putting shrimp on the barbecue. Kelby Miley said it’s not something he’s ever actually done.
“It’s an interesting one. I don’t think ever in my life I ever put a shrimp or a prawn as we call it on the barbie. For some reason it’s stuck around. I don’t know. We laugh every time and it’s something that never happens. They keep it alive,” Kelby Miley said.
Despite the loss, Curtis Miley said he’s sticking with his team.
“I’m wearing my Australian cape. I’m repping it loud and proud even though we lost 2-nil. Aussie Heart through and through. No matter what. Congrats to U.S. though, but we gotta stick with it,” he said.
The brothers are planning to attend two World Cup matches, including June 25 when Australia plays Paraguay in Los Angeles. Kelby Miley celebrates his 22nd birthday June 29.
Curtis Miley said he enjoys playing for the Roadrunners and is excited for his junior year as a defender for CSUB.