Matildas’ lucky draw

A SECOND-half equaliser from Clare Polkinghorne has helped the Matildas secure a highly fortuitous 1-1 draw with England in their international friendly at Craven Cottage.

The Australian national women’s team skipper found an unlikely equaliser on 85 minutes with a trademark header from a corner delivered by Elise Kellond-Knight who was celebrating her 100th cap.

England opened the scoring through Fran Kirby’s goal on 21 minutes and were hard done by not to have been out of sight by half time – although Australia’s under-strength side produced an improved performance after their 2-0 defeat five days ago to France.

Australia goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold made a superb save to deny England captain Steph Houghton but claims the follow up from Beth Mead crossed the line were ignored with replays inconclusive.

The Matildas will play two home matches against Chile next month, in Penrith and Newcastle, before the 2019 Women’s World Cup draw takes place in December.