Sorry Simon, but if he's such a hero for Australian sport why is he playing in frront of just 20,000 ?
High ticket prices for the game (Aus $45 for a seat up top), also, the Melbourne fans have pumped money into the A-League, via the Victory, 5 years straight. The FFA had to realise we ain't a cash cow.
Also, besides the die-hard soccer fans, Oman ain't a great crowd-puller, name me 3 players from Oman off the top of your head.
This matter has been discussed in Oz Forums a bit. Overall, Melbourne has been good for the game of late. Valeo (hi mate) and Kiwi_pie who post on the Victory forums will help me out here (I hope :)