The Matildas were far from discraced with a 3-1 loss to world number two China last night in Zhuhai, their first match under a new coach, adjusting to a new system of play, and two players making their international debut.
Australia controlled the second half against the star Chinese outfit, their more technical new style of play starting to gel on the field in what was the first of a two match series. A crowd of 15,000 came to Zhuhai Stadium in the humid conditions.
US-based midfielder Danielle Small made her debut for Australia as part of the starting lineup. Sixteen-year-old Heather Garrock got an earlier call-up than expected from the bench for her first international, replacing Bridgette Starr who suffered a broken nose in a clash with Lui Ying in the 22nd minute.
The Matildas were tentative in the first half and found themselves under great pressure as China displayed some of their sensational attacking World Cup form, two quick goals giving them the break before half-time.
A lapse in concentration allowed Chinas's Wang Li Ping to score in the 35th minute as the Aussie defence appealed for offside. With the Matildas still reeling, the home side broke away up the left and the penetrating cross was converted by Xie Hui Lin.
A more confident Australia kept greater possession in the second half and reduced the deficit in the 61st minute. Small intercepted a China pass at halfway and switched the ball to the left, allowing striker Sunni Hughes to run in and place a neat chip over the advancing keeper.
China was now under pressure and were forced into some uncharacteristic errors. But against the run of play, they sealed the match with a third goal in the 77th minute, the Matildas failing to close down Zhao Li Hong who placed her 20 metre strike into the corner of goal.
The two debutantes made an instant impact, named as two of Australia's best, along with defender Traci Bartlett.
"Apart from the one defensive lapse which allowed China to score the third goal, I am very happy with the performance of the team in the second half," said new National Coach Chris Tanzey. "It shows the players are adapting to the new style and we can look forward to greater improvements."