It was the classic Australian way to do things. Go in as underdogs, surprise everyone with unrelenting tenacity and ferocity, with fervour and purpose in every single pressing action or every tackle, and go on to provide an immense challenge for one of the World’s best.
That’s what the Socceroos did to the Netherlands in the 2014 Men’s World Cup, and the Matildas managed to keep the tradition alive in front of a packed house in Winnipeg.
Matildas Valiant and Defiant: But Ultimately Overcome
Unfortunately, an even more resolute USA side did enough to repel the Aussies’ fight, chiefly through the efforts of Hope Solo to prevent a two or three goal surprise early in the outset. Despite the efforts from Emily van Egmond and Lisa De Vanna; both of which were saved tremendously by Solo; whose reputation as the World’s best goalkeeper was reinforced by the steely performance, Australia split the 2011 World Cup Runners up down the middle; playing quick, forceful football that had the Americans’ defence reeling.
But Australia’s defence wasn’t quite equipped to deal with the onslaught that would inevitably follow on the counter attack; a fact many anticipated prior to the game. How they combatted it was perfectly summated by the period of play both during; and after, the USA’s first goal. Some terrific footwork from Megan Rapinoe and a severe deflection saw the ball trail past Melissa Hudson.
In the following attack, however, a superb ball from Emily van Egmond found Samantha Kerr as she broke through the US back four, hit a perfectly timed volley directed towards the bottom corner and nearly reeled off for the celebration: if it wasn’t for Solo’s heroics again.
Then, the breakthrough came.
Lisa De Vanna: the co-captain and spirit of the team on the right flank slotted her eighth World Cup goal of her career, in her 100th game, against the side that the Matildas had failed to beat in 26 attempts. Spirits were high as the Australians continued to press, bringing it to the side that many believed to be favourites for the tournament.
But as the match wore on, the Aussie fighting spirit, grit and determination wore off; shadowed by the class of the USA. When Alex Morgan: arguably the best women’s footballer in the world, began to warm-up and Christen Press nailed a beautiful finish to restore the USA’s lead; it was always going to be a mountain to climb to regain composure and bring the 3 points back.
The midfield three that dominated the USA’s midfield; pressing immensely well and cutting off circulation to a stagnant Abby Wambach, tired by the culmination of the hour and the USA were able to keep the pressure on a Matildas defence riddled by injuries; and by the time Megan Rapinoe; who was superb throughout; surged towards the Matildas’ defence, the lack of shape and fitness began to show; and the margin was doubled. That’s how it finished, though the Matildas can be delighted with a first half performance as good as any the USA will likely face in the tournament.
Australia was never meant to stun the USA; up against a side on near-home turf and in a cup they are seemingly destined to dominate: but they got close. There was absolutely nothing to back away from in the performance; and despite the score-line, should feel satisfied with an immense performance. Alongside the kind of passion and intensity seen in the opening half especially; there’s plenty to smile about for most Aussie football fans as the Matildas go into their second group game against Nigeria: fresh off a riveting 3-3 draw with Sweden, fully aware that they can take it to anybody on any given day.
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