Australia (1) v (11) Paraguay

By Tim Beissmann

A HUGE Aussie crowd turned out for the home team's showdown with Paraguay, but unfortunately the girls couldn't get over the line, going down 11-1 in the end.

The South Americans started with a flurry putting the first three goals on the board before the Australians had a chance to react.

But the crowd soon rose to their feet when local hero Sharon "Shrek" Haley slammed through the opener for the Aussies to bring the margin back to two.

Australian keeper Miki was required to throw herself around in the opening half, and made some ripping saves in the later stages to keep the Paraguayans from adding to their lead.

Nidia Romina Cardozo Dominguez was impressive for Paraguay early, converting some important goals to give her country a 4-1 lead at the half time break.

The Paraguayans emerged ruthless after the spell, slamming home two gems in the opening minute through Maria Adeniuda Frasqueri Bogado and fellow strikers.

Despite the terrific efforts of Shrek in defence, the Aussie girls conceeded another three quick goals, remarkably all off the boot of Frasqueri Bogado, who took her match tally to four.

Some impressive strikes at goal from Tracy "The Gun" were painstakingly close but just rejected by solid Paraguayan keeper Elisa Noelia Caceres Gamarra.

A late hat-trick to Cardozo Dominguez in the dying minutes finished off the Australians, who fought hard and were gallant in defeat.

Late shots on goal from Toni Whelan had the stands groaning, but they were nevertheless appreciative of the brave performance put on by the girls.

Photos: Photoworx