The gulf in class between the Matildas and Banyana Banyana was there for everyone to see as the Australians beat the South Africans 4-1 in an international friendly match at the Kingsmeadow Stadium in London, United Kingdom, on Saturday afternoon.
The Matildas raced to a fifth minute lead through Courtnee Vine following Banyana goalkeeper Reborn Ngobeni’s blunder.
The Australians increased the lead in the 24th through Vine from yet another defensive blunder by the Banyana defence.
Australia’s pure class was evident throughout and it was not surprising when Clare Polkinghorne headed past Ngobeni to make it 3-0 three minutes before half-time.
The Matildas started the second half with more purpose taking the match to Banyana. They scored their fourth goal of the match through Caitlin Foord following a solo effort.
Hilda Magaia scored Banyana’s consolation goal after good work from Melinda Kgadiete three minutes from time.
This was the first time Banyana, who have conceded 13 goals in their last three matches, played against the Australians outside the Olympics and the World Cup.
