The Matildas were forced to fight hard for their 2-1 win against France tonight in Coffs Harbour, getting them off to a good start in the Australia Cup three-test series.
Their two goal advantage was in danger of being whittled away when the French responded with a goal midway through the second half, and thereafter continued to pressure the Australian defence. But the spirited Matildas held on in what was a bruising affair to record an exciting win to the delight of the 5,118-strong crowd.
Striker April Mann almost pulled out a dream goal to celebrate her debut for Australia just four minutes in, her thumping drive from the edge of the box well saved by the keeper. Two minutes later, France's Peggy Provost had her long range strike kicked off the line by midfielder Bryony Duus.
An even tussle ensued for the remainder of the half until stoppage time when Australia came well alive. Noticing the French keeper way out off her line, Sharon Black struck first time on the turn from 30 metres and chipped the keeper, only to hit the left post.
But the ball remained in play and eventually made its way to Kim Revell who neatly lobbed the ball into goal from the left edge of the 18-yard. The timing was perfect, just before half-time.
Australia doubled their lead four minutes into the second half, Revell providing a well-floated freekick into the box which was touched on with a glancing header. Cheryl Salisbury, ghosting in at the far post, timed her volley to perfection for a sensational goal, reclaiming outright her mantle of Australia's top scorer of all time with a total of twenty-five.
As things became more heated between the two sides, France capitalised on a freekick in the 66th minute, Hoda Lattaf finishing the chance with a solid header from 9 metres at the far post. Boosted by the goal, the French hovered in the attacking third for the next ten minutes.
Midfielder Taryn Rockall came in off the bench to also notch up her first cap for Australia. The home side held firm until the final whistle to claim the victory.
"I'm happy with the result," said Interim Coach Adrian Santrac. "It was a very good first hitout. The girls really dug deep and did extremely well."
The two teams head north to Lismore tomorrow in readiness for their next clash on Sunday evening.