Unashamed Football Novels

DPR Korea 1 China 2 A thoroughly miserable grey day in Western Sydney was a total contrast to the last time these two teams were in action, intermittent rain making for ideal conditions on the field, but adding to the barriers keeping the fans away from this tournament so far. The teams emerged well ahead… Read more

Australia 3 South Korea 3 This was meant to be a fairytale run of games in Sydney, packing out Accor Stadium with fervent Matildas fans en route to Asian Cup glory; however, as big-time women’s football returned to our shores after a series of underwhelming attendances, South Korea provided the Matildas’ first major test of… Read more

Uzbekistan 0 China 3 Conditions had eased in Parramatta as part two of this double game day came to life, the heat and humidity giving way to a perfect night for football in the stands and on the pitch. Outside, the red shirts of China were prominent in the stadium precinct and a chunk of… Read more

Bangladesh 0 North Korea 5 Sydney’s humidity in early autumn is notoriously heavy after a rainy period and today in Parramatta, the scale must have been nudging Far North Queensland levels, the stadium precinct’s tiny trees offering little protection from the blazing sun and most people dripping with sweat. A small crowd made use of… Read more

Iran 0 Australia 4 The Loose Moose was a very appropriate venue for the Matildas Active pre-game get-together, ardent Australia fans from around the country descending on Broadbeach for another marvellous meeting of our beautiful game. The steamy conditions suggested late rain, but the short walk to the shuttle buses was in hot sunshine, and… Read more