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Matildas with a slim chance after gutsy draw
Australia's womens team, the Matildas, have shown defence at the highest quality to remain a slim chance of progressing through to the second round of the FIFA Womens World Cup in the USA.
China, USA '99 finalists, came out strongly against Australia but the defence held strong, catching the Chinese offside numerous times. Despite the Chinese onslaught on the Aussie goal it was a counter attack that saw the first goal of the match. Danielle Small sent a perfectly weighted ball through for Heather Garriock to run onto. With one of the best left foots in the game she wasn't troubled in beaten the Chinese keeper. Australia 1-0 after 28 minutes as a stunned crowd and Chinese team watched on.
This sparked the Steel Roses into action but despite their persistance, the Matildas defence held up until the break.
Australia obviously decided to start slowly against China in the second half and they paid for it. Zhang Ouying sent a cross in and keeper Cassandra Kell could only parry the ball away and into the path of a waiting Bai Jie. From eight yards out she made no mistake, drawing the Steel Roses level once more.
The remainder of the half saw China attack and attack, only to see each attack halted or miss each time. The entire second half saw Australia only get one shot on goal while China literally bombarded the Aussie goal. However a lack of creativity at corners and general play saw China fall short and Australia keep their chances alive.
Australia's first match against Russia ended 2-1 to the Europeans after a 89th minute goal went in for Russia. China had defeated Ghana 1-0. The other match of this round saw Russia defeat Ghana 3-0.
For Australia to progress however they must rely on a good win against Ghana and for Russia to defeat China. A win against China would have meant not relying on other results to progress.
26 September, 2003 |
