Australia v New Zealand report by FFA

Australia 1 - New Zealand 0


The Matildas defeated New Zealand 1-0 in a practice match played in Coffs Harbour today to complete a clean sweep of the two-match series as both teams continue preparations for September's FIFA Women's World Cup in China.

The only goal of the match came after 24 minutes when speedy striker Lisa DeVanna outpaced the defence following a long-ball from goalkeeper Melissa Barbieri.

Australian coach Tom Sermanni fielded an experimental line-up with the World Cup squad to be selected next month. None of the starting players from Thursday's 3-0 win featured in the match and there were three Australian debutants in Melbourne-based defender Louisa Bisbi, Brisbane defender Ellen Beaumont and ACT midfielder Amy Chapman.

Barbieri was rarely tested in the Australian goal with Australia coming closest to scoring in the second half when Kate Gill outpaced the defence but her lofted shot over the advancing goalkeeper narrowly cleared the crossbar.

The Matildas will return to Coffs Harbour next month when they wrap up their Olympic qualification match schedule against Chinese Taipei on Sunday 12 following the penultimate group match in Hong Kong on Sunday 4 August.


written by Football Federation Australia