The Ford Football Ferns have made it six wins in six, defeating Thailand in Ōtautahi Christchurch this afternoon in the team’s first games in Aotearoa since the home FIFA Women’s World Cup. 

Head coach Jitka Klimková’s team claimed the win with goals from Hannah Wilkinson, Jacqui Hand and a double from Katie Kitching at Apollo Projects Stadium. 

Klimková named a strong side for the fixture, with nine of the starting eleven taking to the field during the FIFA Women’s World Cup, including Malia Steinmetz, Ali Riley and CJ Bott who returned after missing the last tour in Samoa. 

The Ferns opened the stronger of the two sides, cheered on by a 6,031 home crowd in the garden city. 

 

In the 17th minute it was No. 17 Hannah Wilkinson who opened the scoring. 

Indiah-Paige Riley made a clever run from midfield and slipped a through ball to Wilkinson to finish precisely past Tiffany Sornpao in the Thailand goal. 

Despite dominating possession, it wasn’t until the second half that the Ford Football Ferns doubled their lead. 

Substitute Katie Kitching made a strong run down the right flank and crossed in to Jacqui Hand who controlled the ball before slotting it into the net in the 64th minute. 

8 minutes later it was three with Kitching turning from creator to goalscorer, firing in a half volley from the penalty spot. 

A late penalty, also converted by Kitching, made it four to secure the Ferns biggest home win in 12 years. 

The Ferns will look to make it seven wins in seven on Tuesday night at the same ground when they play the second match in the series against Thailand. 

Final Score:

Ford Football Ferns - 4 (Hannah Wilkinson 17’, Jacqui Hand 64’, Katie Kitching 72’ & 88’)
Thailand - 0

Article added: Saturday 06 April 2024