Poles save blushes

Poland coach Pawal Janas is fighting for his job and was desperate for his side to pick up their first World Cup points, while the Ticos were also pointless.

The opening exchanges were slow as the Central Americans got behind the ball and Poland struggled to break them down. The crosses into the box from wide positions were often of poor quality and the frustration of forwards Ebi Smolarek, Ireneusz Jelen and Maciej Zurawski was clear to see.

Costa Rica, while cagey in defence, broke quickly in attack and Paulo Wanchope won a free kick on the right side of the box on 23 minutes with some tricky play. The impressive Ronald Gomez stepped up and slammed a shot straight through the wall, which Artur Boruc let through his legs and into the net.

The travelling army of Polish fans were shocked but attempted to rally their team, fearful of a third loss and returning home with no points to show for their German excursion.

Smolarek tried in vain to orchestrate an equaliser and Zurawski was unfortunate to see his shot blocked by Luis Marin.

Then from a corner Costa Rica 'keeper Porras looked to be tripped by Zurawski and Bartosz Bosacki, arriving at the penalty spot, volleyed in off the bar. Referee Shamsul Maidin gave the goal and the Polish players celebrated.

In the second half Poland continued to dominate possession. Again though it was Costa Rica who threatened the most, with Wanchope making a nuisance of himself around the box and Cristian Bolanos almost nicking the ball over Boruc to regain the lead.

In the 65th minute Bosacki it was again that attacked the ball, this time with his head at the far post, to score the winning goal for Poland and send their fans home happy.

Whether it is enough to save Janas' job after a poor World Cup remains to be seen, but at least the final Group A table says that his side has three points.

Costa Rica, on the other hand, head home with nothing but memories.

Man of the match: Ronald Gomez.