The Matildas made a disappointing start in the Australia Cup tonight, performing way below par for a 2-0 loss to Sweden at North Sydney Oval. In Melbourne, the young USA team steamrolled the Czech Republic 8-1 at Olympic Park.
Australia appeared unusually hesitant and lacking in shape and structure in the strong windy conditions. For a team who these days focuses on keeping posession and building from the back, there was little to cheer about. Sweden were a controlled and efficiant unit with good movement in attack and an impressive defensive line.
Sweden soon took advantage of Australia's disorganised state, taking the lead in the 15th minute. A neat ball was lobbed forward with neither of two defenders taking charge of the bouncing ball, allowing striker Hanna Ljungberg in for a well executed chip over the keeper from 16 metres.
The Matildas responded immediately and created two openings, Sharon Black forcing a good save from Swedish keeper Ulrika Karlsson. Black then sent in an enticing free kick from the right, the ball flying past the far post just out of reach of a queue of Australian attackers.
But Sweden were too strong and soon doubled their lead, again a defensive error assisting their cause. A near post Malin Andersson corner was challenged for by Swede Cecelia Sandell and ricocheted into the net off a sea of defenders' legs, Sandell credited with the goal.
Sweden never surrendered the upper hand although the second half fell away in terms of composure as heavy rain added to the already difficult conditions. Frustrated with their first half showing, the Matildas at least fought harder after the break. Neither team was able to create any clear chances on goal.
"We got what we deserved," said national coach Chris Tanzey of the Matildas. "Footballwise, we only played to 30% of our ability. We never played the way we've been working in training and reverted back to the old ways when we came under a bit of pressure. We learnt a lot of things tonight."