On Sunday, the United States Women’s National Team, in the second match of their Fan Tribute series, defeated Australia by a score of 2 to 1, via second half goals by Alex Morgan and Shannon Boxx (U.S. Soccer match report). The Matildas were quite dangerous in the first half, with at least two shots that rebounded off the posts, but an individual effort by the speedy Lisa deVanna gave the visitors a 1:0 half-time advantage.
Full U.S. Soccer highlights are not yet available, but the goals are:
Lisa de Vanna Goal (34′):
Alex Morgan Goal (55′):
Shannon Box PK Goal (63′):
RANDOM THOUGHTS — Australia, with their 4-3-3, pressured the USA in the first half and was able to convert a few turnovers into dangerous counters… The USA midfield, especially in the first half was really slow in moving the ball, taking too many touches and dribbling when quick passing was needed… Amy Rodriguez, who came on for Abby Wambach in the 67th minute as a forward, did herself no favors in trying to make a case for her to be retained by the next head coach. Rodriguez had a handful of shots, but only one, a weak header, was on target, the others were nowhere close. She also got in the way of a shot.
NEXT MATCH ON WEDNESDAY — The USA and Australia will meet again on Wednesday, September 19th, at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, Colorado. Kick-off is listed at 10:00 p.m. EDT. The match will be televised live on ESPN2. Live streaming via WatchESPN is not available. This will Pia Sundhage’s last match as head coach of the USWNT.
Women's Soccer Express 