The Paramatildas have now won back-to-back games at the IFCPF Women’s World Cup, defeating Japan 4-0 on Friday evening (AEST).
The Pararoos entered the game unchanged in personnel from their win over the Netherlands, with coach Kelly Stirton seeing no reason to alter the side after the 12-0 win earlier in the week.
Australia started strong, and almost found the breakthrough in the 16th-minutes, a short corner finding the feet of striker Georgia Beikoff, whose effort was cleared off the line.
Moments later, Australia got its goal, Lainee Harrison the beneficiary of a drop ball, setting up Eloise Northam who poked the ball past Japanese goalkeeper Masami Ryochi to give the green and gold the advantage.
The Paramatildas almost doubled their lead when a ricochet fell kindly for Beikoff, who saw her effort from outside the area rattle the crossbar, Australia pressing to try and create breathing space between themselves and their Japanese contemporaries.
Beikoff then got the goal she deserved in the 23rd-minute, a rocket from outside the box arrowing into the bottom corner, as she notched her seventh goal in the tournament.
In first-half stoppage time, Lainee Harrison added a goal to her assist, clinically converting from inside the area to all but secure the three points from the Paramatildas.
Harrison then completed a brace when substitute Japanese shot-stopper Miyabi Hamada was caught in possession, allowing Australia’s number five to slot home and complete the scoring.
The win moves Australia into the top two of their group, ahead of their clash against Spain tonight, with kick-off scheduled for 5:45pm AEST.
