The Matildas finished their North American tour on a disappointing note today (Aust time), losing 1-0 to Italy in their Nike US Women's Cup clash, the Italians snatching a last-minute winner.
Despite the loss, the Matildas still finished second on goal difference, Australia's highest ever placing in this prestigious event after finishing third in both 1995 and 1997. USA earlier in the week maintained their stranglehold on the Cup by keeping up their perfect win record. Italy gained a little satisfaction in claiming third place over Russia who had beaten them in the World Cup Qualifiers.
Today's game was a tough battle with few highlights. The Matildas started in promising fashion and held the territorial advantage but allowed themselves to be frustrated by the physical ways of the Italians. Defender Dianne Alagich had the best chance on goal for Australia midway through the half, but she headed Heather Garriock's freekick wide of the target. Chiara Gazzoli's attempt to put Italy in the lead a minute before the break was saved by goalkeeper Melissa Barbieri.
The tempo of play increased early in the second half, but still there were few chances at either end. A fast break by the Matildas in the 66th minute saw Joanne Peters release Garriock but her shot from the left of goal flew into the side netting.
Then as it looked more and more like the points would be shared, Italy scored in the 90th minute. A freekick from 40 metres wide on the right was floated into the left of the six-yard box and headed in by midfielder Elisa Camporese, through the clutches of Barbieri. Australia had a last chance to equalise in the second minute of stoppage time, a freekick finding Peters in the box, but her strike sailed wide of the post.
AIS/National Coach Adrian Santrac was disappointed with the game but pleased overall with the two weeks. "Our inexperience was exposed tonight by an Italian team who tried every trick in the book and finally succeeded. To have conceded a goal in the 90th minute is very disappointing, however the lessons learnt will be of benefit."
Santrac added, "This has been a wonderful tour, having played five extremely tough games, and to finally finish this tournament in second place behind the US is an indication of the improvements in this team."