Kerr triple drives win over Japan

SAM Kerr fired the Matildas to a second consecutive win at the Tournament of Nations, scoring a hat- trick in Australia’s 4- 2 defeat of Japan.

The red- hot West Australian scored her first international hat- trick in the first half as the Australian women’s soccer team came from behind to defeat their regional rivals.

Australia’s biggest win over the Nadeshiko in 32 years followed the Matildas’ first defeat of the world No. 1 US last week.

While the US triumph came from an all- round team effort, San Diego saw the Sam Kerr show as she brought her strong club form to international level.

Japan striker Mina Tanaka opened the scoring when she chested home a cross to put Japan ahead after six minutes.

On 11 minutes Hayley Raso showed lightning pace to break free down the right, cutting back to an unmarked Kerr to tap home an equaliser.

Five minutes later the Australian No. 20 turned her marker before unleashing a curled finish past Sakiko Ikeda to put the Matildas ahead.

As halftime loomed Kerr ( above) used her pace once more to complete the hat- trick.

The Perth Glory striker won a header and raced on to her own work to score a oneon- one at the second attempt before celebrating with a handstand and backflip.

Emily Van Egmond’s second- half penalty completed the scoring.

Matildas coach Alen Stajcic said the scoreline, cut when Yuka Momiki scored an injury- time consolation, did not reflect Australia’s dominance.

The Matildas close out the friendly competition on Friday against Brazil.