Aussies rub in medal misery

As if the Aussies didn't have enough to crow about at the Olympic Games already: Channel 7, the official Games broadcaster, revelled in New Zealand's misfortune in a "satirical" summation of day four action on Tuesday night.

After fawning over the roles of "Thorpy" and "Klimy" in setting a new world record when winning gold in the 4x200-metre freestyle swimming relay, the team equestrian title and another gold to swimmer Susie O'Neill "The Dream" programme took particular delight in New Zealand's Olympic Games effort.

Sportscasters Roy Slaven and H G Nelson had the studio audience in stitches showing clips of the New Zealand women's softball team during their 10-0 loss to China tonight accompanied by a snide commentary.

There was no respite. Tall Ferns basketballer Gina Farmer was shown uttering an expletive after missing a free throw during New Zealand's loss to Korea.

The theft of laptop computers from the team's village accommodation also was highlighted with the comic duo claiming they had been passed crucial New Zealand team tactics:

Tip 1: If you're a New Zealander in Australia - don't admit it.

Tip 2: If you get in front try to stay there.

The New Zealand medal tally also made a regular appearance - a sheet of paper with a hastily drawn zero prominent.

- NZPA