Young Matildas lose narrowly to Chinese hosts

The Young Matildas has lost the first of a two-match series against China 1-0 in Chengdu, as they continue preparations for the AFC U19 Women’s Championship that is being held in China next month.

The Young Matildas has lost the first of a two-match series against China 1-0 in Chengdu, as they continue preparations for the AFC U19 Women-s Championship that is being held in China next month.

Despite the loss it was a solid hit out for Alen Stajcic-s team, who only arrived in China late on Wednesday night and were still feeling the effects of the trip.

China, as expected started well and had Australia on the back foot, hitting the crossbar in the 9th minute. Their pressure eventually told in the 33rd minute, when they took the lead with a nicely taken headed goal.

Servet Uzunlar, one of several players who went to the last world championship in Russia last year, had Australia-s best chance late in the half, but her free kick was held well by the Chinese keeper.

The second half saw Australia come more into the game, especially in the last 20 minutes, where they really pressed the Chinese defence, however they proved hard to crack.

Match Details to follow later

Young Matildas squad is:

The full squad is: Goalkeepers: Lydia Wiliams, Casey Dumont, Rachel Cooper

Defenders: Caitlin Cooper, Clare Polkinghorne, Grace Gill-McGrath, Stacey Day, Rachel Doyle

Midfielders: Lyndsay Glohe, Olivia Kennedy, Ellyse Perry, Elise Kellond-Knight, Teresa Polias, Renee Rollason, Tameka Butt, Ella Mastrantonio

Forwards: Jenna Kinglsey, Servet Uzunlar, Kyah Simon, Ashleigh Connor, Victoria Balomenos

Coach: Alen Stajcic (NSW)