Chelsea’s Kerr Triumphs as England Seizes Supercup Victory Over Japan!
Australia’s Sam Kerr (R) celebrates with teammates after their victory (COLIN MURTY) Chelsea striker Sam Kerr scored the winner to put hosts Australia into the Women's Asian Cup final with a tense 2-1 victory over defending champions China on Tuesday in Perth. Kerr fired home from a tight angle in the 58th minute, her fourth goal of the tournament proving the difference in a gruelling semi-final in front of 35,170 fans on a balmy night. The Matildas will face title favourites Japan or South Korea in Saturday's final in Sydney.
The match started at breakneck speed with Arsenal forward Caitlin Foord scoring in the 17th minute. China levelled shortly after with Zhang Linyan converting a penalty, much to the delight of their flag-waving fans behind the goal. But China were unable to contain hometown hero Kerr, who ensured Australia remained on track for a second continental title to sit alongside their 2010 triumph.
"Her presence, her aura, in the squad is immense," Australia head coach Joe Montemurro said of 32-year-old Kerr. "She believes in the group and loves playing for her country. " Influential winger Hayley Raso did not take the field despite being cleared to play after passing concussion tests.
"Hayley's ready to go, she's part of the 26 (player squad)," Montemurro said. "When they're called upon, they're asked to do a job and that's the only way we're going to win on Saturday. " China's bid for a record-extending 10th crown ended in heartbreak and they rued missed opportunities in front of goal after having 14 shots to eight.
"I'm pretty devastated for them because I felt we played a good game," China head coach Ante Milicic said. "All I asked was for them to give 100 per cent which they did. They carried out the game plan.