Shipard scores stunner as Matildas beat Mexico

The Westfield Matildas kicked off their Peace Queen Cup campaign in Korea on the weekend with a convincing 3-1 victory over Mexico which included an outrageous 40-yard volleyed goal from Canberra United’s own Sally Shipard.

The Westfield Matildas kicked off their Peace Queen Cup campaign in Korea on the weekend with a convincing 3-1 victory over Mexico which included an outrageous 40-yard volleyed goal from Canberra United-s own Sally Shipard. Collecting a Katie Gill knock-down Shipard struck a wonder effort from the edge of the centre-circle past the bewildered Mexican ‘keeper to help Australia get off to a great start in the tournament.

Canberra United team mate Caitlin Munoz also featured for Australia playing 86 minutes before being replaced by Thea Slatyer. Australia’s other goals were scored by Katie Gill and Collette McCallum whilst Canberra United goalkeeper Lydia Williams was an unused substitute.

The victory sets the Matildas up nicely for their second match of the competition against Chinese Taipei (Taiwan) scheduled for Tuesday 19th October. A win in that game should set up a blockbuster Final showdown with England who are favourites to progress from the other pool.

ABC TV will be broadcasting a highlights package of the Westfield Matildas group matches in a two hour package on ABC 1 from 3-5pm this Saturday.

The final will be shown at approximately 10am Sunday morning as a full replay.

Following the Peace Queen Cup the Matilda shed to Germany, venue for the 2011 Women-s FIFA World Cup, for a friendly fixture against European powerhouse Germany. The match against Germany will be on ABC 1 from 3-5pm on the 30th October as a great lead into the Westfield W-League season which commences the following week.

PEACE QUEEN CUP FIXTURES
17/10/10 – Korea 0-0 New Zealand
17/10/10 – Australia 3-1 Mexico
19/10/10 – Korea v England
19/10/10 – Australia v Chinese Taipei (Taiwan)
21/10/10 – New Zealand v England
21/10/10 – Mexico v Chinese Taipei (Taiwan)
23/10/10 – Peace Queen Cup Final