The Matildas have produced a commanding performance in Gosford tonight, running out 5–0 victors over Football Ferns in the first of two friendlies between the nations.
Despite the absence of captain Sam Kerr from the starting XI ,she missed the warm up, reportedly due to calf tightness, the home side did not miss a beat.
Midfielder Amy Sayer opened the scoring in the 13th minute. A neat free kick over the top found a header from midfield that landed kindly for Sayer she took a deep breath and slotted it calmly past the keeper.
Only ten minutes later, defender error from New Zealand allowed Hayley Raso to cut inside and curl the ball into the unguarded net, giving Australia a 2–0 lead.
The Matildas continued to press after half time. In the 70th minute, winger Ellie Carpenter pounced on a loose clearance and composedly fired in the third goal. Just a minute later, Kyra Cooney-Cross unleashed a stunning strike from distance a thunderous, long range effort that left the keeper with no chance.
Finally, in stoppage time, Katrina Gorry added a fifth, wrapping up a clean sweep and rounding off a dominant display.
Although New Zealand offered little resistance, and their defensive mishaps contributed to the margin, the Matildas’ display was full of attacking flair and ruthless finishing. For a side missing a key player, it was a statement performance one that will no doubt raise confidence with the upcoming continental tournament on the horizon.
With the second friendly scheduled for Tuesday, this win provides a healthy lift for the team and supporters alike heading into what could be a big few months in women’s football.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.