Match Report
The CommBank Matildas have defeated Haiti 7-1 to end the October international window on a high note.
Leticia McKenna scored a double in her first start for the national team before second-half goals to Caitlin Foord, Daniela Galic, Clare Wheeler, Holly McNamara and an own goal sealed the comprehensive result.
Head Coach Joe Montemurro made four changes to the side that took on Germany earlier in the window. Courtney Nevin and Charli Grant came into defence, replacing Steph Catley – who departed camp as part of a managed approach to the window – and Ellie Carpenter, who started from the bench. In midfield, Leticia McKenna replaced Amy Sayer, while Alana Murphy replaced Emily van Egmond.
Australia were on the scoresheet within 80 seconds. Clare Wheeler did exceptionally well to reel the ball in at the byline. Her cutback found Leticia McKenna, whose first-time finish was definitive.
Their lead did not last long. Haiti were always going to be a threat in transition, and so it proved. Melchie Dumornay got on the end of a ball in behind Australia’s defence. The OL Lyonnes striker was clinical, finishing past Arnold in goal and levelling the score.
The CommBank Matildas had the majority of possession, but Haiti continued to be dangerous in those counterattacking moments. In the 33rd minute, Brittany Raphino came close from one of those situations, a rebound off Arnold hitting the crossbar. Arnold managed to save the follow-up.
