Liberia (4) v (1) Paraguay
Liberia (4) v Paraguay (1)
By George Thomson
MELBOURNE stadium was treated to its first women's game of the day as evening drew in, with Liberia overcoming Paraguay 4-1.
Liberia started the game the brighter side, using their physical superiority to dominate the early skirmishes. A lashed shot from distance opened their account.
However their resolve was to be tested by a double injury during the third minute. While one player was unable to continue, having been playing despite carrying an injury from a previous match, her teammate decided to play on, much to the admiration of the crowd.
Despite their various knocks and grazes, the Liberians powered on, adding another fine strike to double their lead.
At the other end, the Paraguayan's finally received some reward for their dogged efforts, their diminutive striker forcing the ball home from a tight angle.
Leading 2-1 from the first half, the Liberians moved forward with renewed determination in the second, anxious not to let their earlier profligacy punish them. Two quick goals followed, as the Africans settled into a three goal lead.
The rest of the match saw end to end action as both teams rotated their squads. One highlight saw the Liberian goalkeeper stretch every sinew in clawing away a back-spinning ball off her own line.
Paraguay were not without their chances, firing in several shots and shaving a post, but in the end Liberia ran out 4-1 winners.
Photos: Photoworx