Matildas vs Slovenia: Australia pushing to find opening goal as half-time beckons

2 months ago 28

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8.54pm

Half-time around the corner

41′ - Half-time is coming up at a million miles an hour. It’s a goalless game so far. The Matildas have progressively got better and better as the match has worn on. It’s patently clear that there’s a strong emphasis on formation, and finding the right one for the moment. Michelle Heyman has looked dangerous up forward, while Carpenter is all class thus far.

8.46pm

The pre-match set up

Australia and Slovenia players line up for the national anthems.

8.40pm

Australia’s new best chance

23′ - And this is Australia’s new best chance .… Michelle Heyman has acres of space as she dribbles the ball forward going directly down the guts. Heyman lets fly with her attempt … and, ooohhhh, it just misses to the right. A quality attempt there.

8.34pm

Australia’s best chance so far

21′ - Australia’s best chance so far. A penetrating and clinical build-up. After a series of hot-step passes, the ball is deflected just to the right of Australia’s attacking goal area (that’s to the right of screen if you’re watching on).

Australia 0 Slovenia 0

8.30pm

One fan’s thoughts of the new coach

8.25pm

The early play

13′ - A patient and steady start from both teams after nearly 15 minutes. The Matildas have set up well, looking to create space for Ellie Carpenter to run into on the right wing. Early thoughts? Slovenia won’t be a pushover tonight. Let’s see.

8.15pm

One fan loves the vibe

A young fan shows their support ahead of the clash.

8.10pm

It’s almost time for kick-off

A healthy crowd in the house out west.

8.07pm

The state of the squad

There’s an expanded Matildas squad for his block of games. Coach Joe Montemurro is without Sam Kerr (ACL), Mary Fowler (ACL) and Tameka Yallop (leg) due to injury, while Steph Catley, Caitlin Foord, Katrina Gorry and Cortnee Vine are all on personal leave.

8.05pm