With a rainbow to kickoff play in Ballarat, one of Melbourne's regional heritage areas, Victorians had their first chance to see the Matildas play in over a decade, the reward - a 2-0 victory over a strong New Zealand squad.

Caitlin Foord started the scoring early with her low cross dipping and skidding through traffic and beating Erin Nayler in goals. From then there were plenty of opportunities for the Matildas, with the best chances coming from a Lisa De Vanna's shot on goal, fumbled by Nayler, but Michelle Heyman was unable to capitalise on the loose ball.

With most of the possession in their own attacking half, and with De Vanna and Foord working overtime creating chances, New Zealand struggled to attack with any real strength.

Chloe Logarzo livened up the sizable crowd with a powerful low drive, Nayler up to the task.

THe goal peppering continued with Heyman missing an opportunity just outside the right post.

Heading into half time break with a 1-0 lead, the Matildas still had plenty of work in front of them, particularly against the Football Ferns' strong press across the field.

The Matildas flirted with danger, passing the ball around in their defensive box. New Zealand's Katie Duncan charging through trying to force a turnover.

Six minutes into the second half, striker turned distributor Heyman threaded the ball wide through to Foord whose curling shot gave the keeper no chance. Foord with a brace and Australia 2-0 up.

Late in the game, Tameka Butt cracked an impressive right foot bullet, but Nayler was once again up to the challenge.

In the end it was an entertaining encounter for 4,371 fans who braved the inclement weather, the Matildas winning 2-0 and leading the two game series 1-0. The second game will be played on Tuesday at Etihad Stadium, 5pm kickoff.