Young Matildas defeated by NZ in Game 1

Two long range efforts from Megan Lee was enough to see the Junior Football Ferns defeat the Young Matildas. 2 - 1 in Auckland.

A goal in each half from Lee was enough for the Junior Football Ferns to win the first game in the three-match series despite a late goal from Australia setting up a tense final 10 minutes.

From kick off the Junior Football Ferns were on top with Lee striking the post in the opening minute.  Despite the warning shot, the forward was given space for another opportunity at goal minutes later.  Unleashing from long range, this time her strike found the top corner giving Sham Khamis no opportunity to save.

Megan Lee did the damage for NZ | (Credit: Enzo Giordani)

An early goal on the board, the Ferns took control of proceedings creating numerous chances with Holly Patterson, Katie Bowen and Emma Rolston all going close to doubling New Zealand's lead towards the end of the first half.

The second half saw New Zealand continue their dominance and Lee her goalscoring feats. Picking up the ball on the left from a loose pass she drove to the edge of the edge of the box and rifled a right foot shot into the corner of the net.

Two goals down the Young Matildas rallied and created chances of their own to try and get back into the game.  Dangerous all afternoon, Brittany Whitfield had a good chance with a strong run, beating several defenders before shooting straight at Corina Brown.  Despite their possession Australia could only claw back a goal with five minutes left.

A promising attack ended in Brown palming away a deep cross but into the path of Whitfield who didn't miss from five yards out but it was not enough time for the Young Matildas to erase the deficit.

Game 2 will be on Saturday 27 July at Kiwitea Street, Auckland with the final game to be played on Monday 29 July at Seddon Street, Auckland. Both games kick off at 2.30pm.

New Zealand 2 (Lee 2)

Australia        1 (Whitfield)

Kristen School, Auckland

Young Matildas Starting XI: Rachel Souter, Alex Huyhn, Grace Field, Sally Rojan, Olivia Price, Tara Andrews (c), Meg McLaughlin, Natasha Wheeler, Melissa Caceras, Grace Macintyre, Alycia Bass