The Westfield Matildas have fought back from a two goal deficit to draw 2-2 with the Netherlands in their opening game of the Cyprus Women’s Cup at GSZ Larnaca.
The Westfield Matildas have fought back from a two goal deficit to draw 2-2 with the Netherlands in their opening game of the Cyprus Women-s Cup at GSZ Larnaca.
Second half goals from Katrina Gorry and Michelle Heyman within the space of five minutes brought the Matildas back level after the Dutch had taken a dominant and deserved 2-nil lead into the break.
Starting as substitutes, Gorry and Heyman were both introduced for the start of the second half together with Laura Alleway.
The changes had near immediate effect as Gorry-s clinical one touch finish from a Steph Catley assist in the 54th minute pulled one back for the Matildas and swayed the momentum their way.
Five minutes later the Matildas were back on level terms as Samantha Kerr made the most of some time and space in midfield, playing a clever diagonal ball over the Netherlands back four finding Heyman, who snuck in behind and superbly sent a chip over the keeper and into the back of the net.
Gorry had a good chance to put Australia ahead and bag her second in the 65th minute but she could not capitalise on the opportunity.
In a game of contrasting halves, the teams were left to share the points as the other Group B game also ended all square with France and Scotland finishing 1-1.
The Westfield Matildas will next face France tomorrow afternoon (Friday 7 March 2014). Kick-off is at 2.30am AEDT Saturday 7 March 2014.
Match Details Netherlands 2 (Vivianne Miedema 12-, Stefanie van der Gragt 34-) Westfield Matildas 2 (Katrina Gorry 54-, Michelle Heyman 59-) @ GSZ Larnaca