Matildas beat Wales as Kerr non-touch proves crucial
“It’s such an honor to play for your country. I grew up with these girls, so it was nice to get back out there and enjoy some football.”
“We are looking forward to the Asian Cup. There is a lot of work to be done, but a good result today and a good boost for the future.”
Katrina Gorry caused a warning in the fifth minute when her hard shot from outside the penalty area hit the crossbar.
“It was nice to get back there and enjoy some football.”
Retired Welsh icon Jess Fishlock received a minute’s applause as the clock struck 10 minutes in his 116th and final international match wearing the number 10 jersey.
Kerr was robbed of opportunities early on as he made several passes to him in the penalty area where there was too much heat to handle.
The highlight of the first half came when Nevin’s free kick grazed Kerr’s boot and entered the goal; Kerr immediately pointed to his teammate and announced who had scored the goal.
This was Nevin’s first international goal, in his 38th appearance.
Foord and Hayley Raso were Australia’s two biggest weapons in the first half, and the visitors had 64 percent of the ball.
Raso took the field for the 100th time and Kerr presented the 31-year-old pilot with the captain’s band to mark the occasion.
Wales were level 10 minutes into the second half when Griffiths turned her body upside down and lobbed a beautiful chip over goalkeeper Teagan Micah.
Australia took a late lead with Kyra Cooney-Cross centering the ball to the anonymous Foord, who made no mistake just seven yards out.
Courtney Vine came off the bench late in her first Matildas appearance since the Paris Olympics.
The Matildas will be back in action next Wednesday morning (AEDT) at Pride Park Stadium in Derby, continuing their preparations for the Asian Cup against England in March.
