The Qantas Young Matildas have commenced their FIFA U-20 Women’s World Championship campaign in confident style recording a convincing 6-2 victory over Thailand in Bangkok overnight.
Queensland striker Sasha McDonnell scored twice, while Kim Carroll, Jenna Tristram, Caitlin Cooper and Leena Khamis all scored one goal apiece.
Although Australia largely dominated the match which was played played in high humidity, it took two late goals to increase the winning margin after Australia had led 3-2 with ten minutes remaining and 3-1 at half time. The goal tally could have been increased even further with Collette McCallum hitting the woodwork and Sally Shipard seeing her penalty saved.
"For our first game in AFC competition it was a great result against difficult opposition and under challenging conditions," said Qantas Young Matildas coach Alistair Edwards. "What was also pleasing aside from the winning margin, is that this performance provides a platform for the team to improve even further. The team is improving each time we take the field, and we hope to carry this form into our next match on Tuesday against what is an unknown opponent for us (Myanmar)."
Should Australia defeat Myanmar tomorrow, the team will progress to the AFC U-20 Women's Championship to be played in Malaysia in April 8-18.
The top three Asian teams will qualify for the 2006 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Championship to be played in Russia in September.