Matildas vs New Zealand: What we learned as Sam Kerr ends goal drought and fans vent commentary frustration

Josh Thomas

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Matildas vs New Zealand: What we learned as Sam Kerr ends goal drought and fans vent commentary frustration image

The Matildas got their Olympics campaign off to a winning start after downing New Zealand 2-1 on Wednesday night. 

Tameka Yallop and Sam Kerr got Australia firing in the first half before they were forced to hold on for the victory after the Football Ferns grabbed a late goal. 

While the scoreline wasn't as sweet as it could have been, there was plenty to like from the Matildas on and off the pitch. 

Channel Seven's coverage of the game wasn't all smooth sailing however with some fans not too happy with the commentary choice. 

Here's what we learned from the Matildas' clash with New Zealand...

Matildas get Sam Kerr firing again

Since Tony Gustavsson took charge as coach, Kerr had gone five games without a goal or assist for her nation. 

That all changed after just 20 minutes against New Zealand as Kerr set up Tameka Yallop in slick fashion for the Matildas opener against New Zealand. 

The Chelsea star would then go from creator to goalscorer just over 10 minutes later as her powerful header bounced over the line after crashing onto the crossbar. 

After being starved of service in recent outings, Kerr was popping up in the all right places across the final third and showed the difference she can make when the Matildas find a way to unleash her. 

As one of the world's best players, giving Kerr that freedom to perform is easier said than done and both Sweden and the United States will be desperate to keep her quieter moving forward. 

Sam Kerr Matildas

Matildas show their class off the pitch

Before a ball had even been kicked, the Matildas had shown their class by posing with the Aboriginal flag for a pre-game team photo. 

With a number of players boasting Indigneous heritage, it was a brilliant gesture that echoed Cathy Freeman's from over 20 years ago. 

New Zealand also deserve special mention for taking the knee before the match and singing their anthem in Maori. 


Ellie Carpenter showing her maturity at 21

After going to the Rio Olympics five years ago as a 16-year-old, Ellie Carpenter has come to Tokyo older, wiser and as arguably one of Australia's best players. 

The right-back, who currently plays club football for French giants Lyon, has improved consistently over the past five years and showed her maturing talent against New Zealand. 

A key moment against the Football Ferns saw her saving Lydia Williams' blushes in the 63rd minute after the keeper allowed a Kiwi attacker to get past her in the box but Carpenter was on hand to clear the ball with goal gaping. 

Calm on the ball and boasting plenty of speed, Carpenter is one star who looks like she'll only shine brighter in years to come.

Football fans still don't like Brenton Speed

All-round sports commentator Brenton Speed was selected as the commentator for this match and he's a caller that's often divided opinion in football circles. 

That fact was hard to miss on social media throughout the game as fans made their feelings known. 





Josh Thomas