🔗 Share this article Australia Take On The Football Ferns in Women's International Exhibition Match Match Summary In an exciting cross-border female football friendly, Australia faced off against the Football Ferns in a much awaited contest. This game commenced with both teams exerting feverish pressure from the opening minutes. Key Moments from the Game Opening Stages At the 2-minute mark: The Matildas began by patiently building moving the ball defensively before a misplaced delivery found the feet a Football Ferns attacker. The visitors attacked swiftly and had a chance with some scrambling around the 18-yard box before Foord and Emily Van Egmond responded with a break. During the 4th minute: Clare Sayer passed to Hayley Raso just near the penalty area but she failed to discover a opening. At the 6-minute mark: Reports indicated that Kerr was suffering from leg issues and did not warm up. Gorry surrendered control in the center of the park and conceded a set piece. Missed Opportunities During the 8th minute: Australia recovered their poise progressing from their own half. A penetrating pass reached Caitlin Foord who flicked it on expertly to Hayley Raso with clear air to goal. She curled the ball past the far post. She possessed space for an additional touch, that was a significant wasted opportunity. During minute 10: A bit of back and forth in the Ferns half. Australia seemed happy to just take their time, exploiting breakaways as we know they love to do. Opening Goal 12 minutes: The breakthrough came! Australia 1-0 New Zealand (Sayer, 12th minute) Excellent free kick from on the half-way line over the top of the defence. The clearing attempt set up the chance at Katrina Gorry's position and she composed Sayer to her side who takes a breath and sends it smoothly into the net. Continued Action During minute 16: The Football Ferns' Jacqui Brown advanced aggressively along the flank and gets off a dangerous ball which is dealt with easily by Clare Heatley. At 18 minutes: The visitors have been energised by conceding an early goal. They are putting on the pressure and testing Arnold and her rear guard properly for the opening period. Ria Foster delivers a corner kick for the Ferns but Ellie Carpenter and fellow defenders clean things up. Game Background The exhibition game showcased each side's fighting qualities despite its non-competitive nature. Following the initial breakthrough, play developed into a engaging encounter with both sides generating chances throughout the first half.