The Matildas showcased their strength with a commanding **5-0** victory over New Zealand in a friendly match held on **October 13, 2023**, in **Gosford**. This marked the largest win of **Joe Montemurro**’s coaching tenure, demonstrating the team’s offensive capabilities even in the absence of captain **Sam Kerr**, who was sidelined due to a calf injury sustained during warm-ups.
Despite the setback of not having Kerr, the Matildas displayed impressive attacking prowess. The team dominated the first half, with **Amy Sayer** scoring the opening goal just **12 minutes** into the match. Sayer capitalized on a well-placed pass from **Katrina Gorry**, who had made a run into space. Sayer’s performance was noteworthy, as she nearly doubled her tally but hit the woodwork shortly after.
As the game progressed, the Matildas maintained their momentum. **Hayley Raso** extended the lead to **2-0** following a defensive error from the Football Ferns. Raso intercepted a pass intended for **Michaela Foster**, catching goalkeeper **Anna Leat** off guard with a precise shot into the net.
Gorry continued to be a threat, and her industry was rewarded late in the match when she scored during added time in the second half after a clever cutback from **Holly McNamara**. This goal capped off a match where the Matildas not only secured a convincing win but also demonstrated their readiness for the upcoming **Asian Cup**, scheduled to take place in Australia next year.
Defensive Errors Haunt New Zealand
The Football Ferns, currently ranked **33rd** in the FIFA rankings, struggled to make an impact offensively. Their defense faltered at crucial moments, leading to three of the Matildas’ goals. Following a promising start to the second half, the visitors faced another lapse when **Liz Anton** made a poor clearance that allowed **Ellie Carpenter** to score Australia’s fourth goal, sealing the match’s fate.
Just seconds after Carpenter’s goal, **Kyra Cooney-Cross** added a fifth with a stunning shot from **30 yards**, further emphasizing the Matildas’ dominance throughout the match. The Australians could have added to their tally but **Steph Catley**’s penalty was saved by Leat after McNamara was fouled in the box.
Montemurro had previously expressed concerns regarding New Zealand’s high press, but it wasn’t until the **58th minute** that the Football Ferns managed to register their first shot on target, courtesy of **Indiah-Paige Riley**. Despite showing some attacking intent, the visitors were unable to find the back of the net.
The Matildas will have another opportunity to build on this momentum when they face New Zealand again in a second friendly match scheduled for **October 17, 2023**, in **Adelaide**. This matchup presents a chance for the team to further refine their tactics before the competitive challenges of the Asian Cup.
