Clare Hunt – 8.5
Once again didn’t put a foot wrong. Colossal performance: eight clearances, two blocks, 10 recoveries. She was everywhere. Big clubs in Europe will be watching very closely.
Mackenzie Arnold – 8
Looked shaky against Nigeria but was back to her sturdy best here – not that she had too much work to do, but when called upon, Arnold did her job. Three strong saves and some well-timed passes, too, which got the attack going.
Ellie Carpenter – 8
This was the Carpenter we’ve been missing this tournament. The one who’s quick upfield and gets into the box. It was a mature performance blighted by only a couple of small errors, including a stray foot that ruled Mary Fowler’s first goal being ruled offside.
Caitlin Foord – 8
Spent more time on the left, and found much more room to express herself. Did brilliantly to assist Fowler’s goal, dribbling down the left and picking the correct moment to play the ball through a sea of legs. Importantly avoided a yellow card, which means she’ll be free to play in the round of 16.
Katrina Gorry – 8
There was a sense Canada were out to rip into Gorry and Australia’s midfield from the off, and Gorry spent a lot of time giving as good as she got. A few errant passes were offset by dogged energy, and got trod on which led to Australia’s penalty.
Alanna Kennedy – 8
After a less-than-convincing display against Nigeria, bounced back with a strong, aggressive showing. Her passing was not always accurate but her presence always significant.
Emily van Egmond – 8
Started again as a No.10 but dropped back when she needed to stop Canada having a numerical advantage in the midfield. Was booked in the first half but otherwise a picture of class.
Substitutes:
Cortnee Vine – 7
Came on in the 75th minute and injected fresh energy in attack as other legs were tiring.
Clare Polkinghorne – N/A
Added her experience to the late defensive effort in the (successful) hunt for a clean sheet.
Charlotte Grant – N/A
Got her first minutes of the tournament in the last couple of minutes of added time.
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