VIETNAM AIM TO GUN DOWN DEPLETED AUSTRALIAN SIDE

Winners of the inaugural women’s championship in 2006, Vietnam have proven to be a highly capable side, especially based on their performance against SEA Games gold medallists Thailand yesterday.

The Vietnam girls won the tie 2-1 to set up a mouth-watering encounter against Australia in the final match of the tournament at the Thang Long Stadium.

Although unbeaten in their preliminary matches, Vietnam will start as the underdogs against a well-represented Australian side.

The Aussies, made up of the best up and coming players from Down Under, have been very impressive and should be able to go the distance in their debut appearance in this tournament.

Australia’s confidence, however, may have suffered a slight dent following the suspension of first-choice defender Clare Polkinghorne and right flanker Amy Chapman, clearly one of the best players in the team.

Australian coach Alistair Edwards said one or two more players who sustained injuries may not be available for the final.

“It was a tough game and we are now without two players who received red cards. Problem is there are others who suffered severe knocks and may not be able to play,” Edwards said.

“It is a bit disappointing for the young players who can’t play in the final; you don’t always get to play a major final.”

The semi-final against defending champions Myanmar was a bruising affair, especially for Australia, but more importantly, it may havejust showed up some chinks in their armour.

While Myanmar conceded four goals in the first half, their players came together and took the fight to Australia in the second half.

Myanmar let in one more goal but equally important is that they became the first team to score against Australia.

The final result was 5-1.

“Australia had a big break between the last group match and the semi-final, so they had ample time to prepare. They have very capable players and their fitness is also very good, it will be a difficult game for sure,” said Vietnam’s Chinese coach Chen Yunfa.

Meanwhile, the third and fourth playoff between Thailand and Myanmar will kick-off at 3pm while the final will be held at 6pm.