The Matildas defeated New Zealand 3-0 today in a practice match played in Coffs Harbour as the team continues preparations for September’s FIFA Women’s World Cup in China.
Australia dominated lengthy periods of the match but were unable to break down their trans-Tasman rivals in a scoreless first half at the Novotel Pacific Bay training ground.
Prolific Australian striker Sarah Walsh broke the deadlock soon after the interval scoring a brace of goals within a thirteen minute period. Walsh’s first was a solid angled shot from the right, with the second a close range header after attacking fullback Heather Garriock had fired a fierce long-range shot onto the underside of the crossbar.
Substitute Lana Harch concluded the scoring eight minutes from time with a left footed strike from inside the penalty area that deflected off a New Zealand defender en-route to goal.
"I am largely pleased with the match and we had some good passages of play in a game that was an excellent hit-out against international opposition as we continue our preparations for September," said Australian coach Tom Sermanni.