Sacramento Storm v Australia report by FFA

Sacramento Storm 0 - Australia 2


The Qantas Matildas have completed their three-match tour of the USA undefeated following a 2-0 win over leading semi-professional side Sacramento Storm in a match played at the Home Depot Centre, Los Angeles.

Second half goals to Sally Shipard and Lana Harch ensured victory over strong opposition that included experienced internationals in Brandi Chastain and Brazil's Sissi.

The win follows on from a 2-0 victory over Mexico mid-week, and a scoreless draw against Olympic champions USA last weekend.

"The match was a very good workout for us and proved to be a very good way to finish the tour," said Qantas Matildas coach Tom Sermanni.

"It has been a valuable trip for us being able to spend time together as a unit and playing against quality opposition.

"The most pleasing aspect of the tour was that we didn't concede any goals which is something we can build on, and the fact that we finished each match strongly is also a major positive."

The winning margin could have been greater with Jo Burgess, Kylie Ledbrook and Collette McCallum all putting the ball in the net only to have their efforts denied for being offside.

The breakthrough finally came 13 minutes from full time with Ledbrook's low drive at goal from the left hand flank fumbled by the goalkeeper and finished from close range by Shipard.

The Australians doubled their lead in injury time with Sarah Walsh setting up Harch who broke clear of the defence and finished smartly lifting her shot over the advancing goalkeeper.

The tour providing ongoing preparation for the 2007 FIFA Women's World Cup campaign with the qualifying tournament currently scheduled for mid-2006.


written by Football Federation Australia