Wallaroos 'silenced critics' in World Cup opener

Wed, Aug 9, 2017, 9:07 PM
Beth Newman
by Beth Newman
The Wallaroos put up a fight against Ireland. Photo: Getty Images
The Wallaroos put up a fight against Ireland. Photo: Getty Images

Wallaroos captain Shannon Parry said her side had answered their critics in their opening clash of the World Cup, despite a two-point loss to hosts Ireland.

Australia kept coming at the Irish but ultimately fell just short, an effort Parry said would have surprised a few onlookers.

“I think we silenced a few critics out there that had completely written us off,” she said post-match.

“We were going hard at that game and I think we were the ones that lost it for ourselves out there, leaving a few points out there but we dug deep for each other and it was testament to the pride in the Aussie jerseys that we came here with and for us we’ve got to bounce back.


“We’ve got another game in three days against France and we’ve got to rebuild, fix up those little things and beat the French.”

It was a physical encounter against Ireland and a three-day turnaround before they face France doesn’t make the Wallaroos' second assignment any easier, but Parry said everyone was on the same page.

“Obviously would love it to be longer, play it like the men’s and play it over six weeks, a game a weekend but everyone’s dealt the same cards, everyone’s got the three-day turnaround,” she said.

“It pretty much starts now, the recovery, and to be able to get as many fit players as we can up for selection for our game against France.

“We’ve got the best medical staff going around and no doubt they’ll be working around the clock to get everyone available.”

The Wallaroos must win that clash against France to stay in contention for the semi finals, with only the pool winner guaranteed a final four spot.

But, just as they did on Thursday morning Australian time, Parry said they’ll attack it with everything they have.

“We’ve got nothing to lose against France same as tonight,it just puts more emphasis on winning that game.”

The Wallaroos take on France on Monday morning, kicking off at 4:45am AEST LIVE on FOX SPORTS.

 

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