The Aussies knew this game would be difficult before, as Zambia play such a different style of football. Did we win? Yes? Was it good performance from us? Not one bit. To concede 5 goals in under 60 minutes and fail to convert chance after chance in the first half has evidently been an issue since the beginning of the ‘pre Olympic friendlies’.

There is one person who has the drive, hunger and ability to score goals from crosses and spills in the box. A natural 9 like Michelle Heyman.

Tony’s decision to not start her again has no justification. It was clear from the Germany game we needed a player that could finish. Balls are being crossed into the first half against Zambia and a player like Gorry is the person attempting to header. If she started, it would have been a much different score line in that first half.

Defensively again, we were not good. We knew going into this game how badly we would be punished for any mistakes in the backline, yet we were unable to play under continuous pressure. The lack of depth on the bench allows players who are underperforming to continue to play when they are not good enough. In comparison, the performance of Macca was poor. Poor shot stopping, decision making, and distribution put us into constant pressure, resulting in several goals.

Would it have been worth starting Micah, who is incredible with her feet?

Possibly.

The lack of confidence in the bench and the ability to bench regular starters has been a key fault in the Tony era. The epic comeback will be remembered by many. Yes it was a wonderful show, however a terrible football performance from both teams, especially defensively.