Australia NewsWinning Start To Asian Cup Tilt |
THE MATILDAS opened their campaign at the 2008 AFC Women's Asian Cup with a 4-0 win over Chinese Taipei in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
A first half double from midfielder Heather Garriock set the Australians on their way, with striker Jenna Tristram and substitute Lisa De Vanna rounding out the scoring with goals either end of the second half.The match commenced in extreme humidity before a torrential downpour midway through the first half saw water remain pooled on the pitch throughout the second period making passing and ball control impossible at times.
"I'm very pleased with the result and particularly so given the circumstances in which the match was played," said Australian coach Tom Sermanni.
"Chinese Taipei were very well organised defensively and made life difficult for us but our team adapted well."
"Once the rain came it made playing football impossible but without doubt the players performed admirably in very trying conditions. We fielded quite a young team tonight but they were very solid throughout and helped us get off to a strong start in this tournament.
Australia now meet Korea Republic on Saturday at 10.30pm (AEST), with the final group game against Japan on Monday also at 8pm (AEST).
Match Details:-
Australia 4 (Heather Garriock 18', 41', Jenna Tristram 52', Lisa De Vanna 82’)
Chinese Taipei 0
Australian line-up: Lydia Williams (gk); Ellyse Perry (Clare Polkinghorne 65'), Kim Carroll, Kate McShea, Karla Reuter, Lauren Colthorpe, Amber Neilson, Heather Garriock (Tameka Butt h/t), Kyah Simon, Jenna Tristram, Caitlin Munoz (Lisa De Vanna 63').
Cautions: nil
Referee: Hong Sil Ri (DPR Korea)
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