Dudek feels brunt of angry Poles

The 28-year-old custodian, who has been a commanding presence in the Reds' goal this term, required treatment from the Polish physio after being on the receiving end of the missile, which was launched from the stands by his own supporters.

Home fans in Lodz were becoming increasingly unhappy with their team's plight and took their frustration out on keeper Dudek midway through the first half.

The former Feyenoord shot-stopper recovered after attention from the physio and continued the match until the half-time interval when he was substituted.

Unites States, Portugal and South Korea are the group opponents of Poland in the World Cup and their impatient fans will hope for a marked improvement.