Matildas' Katrina Gorry Voices Confidence in Reserve Goalkeepers Ahead of Asian Cup Clash
Matildas midfielder Katrina Gorry has publicly endorsed deputy goalkeepers Jada Whyman and Chloe Lincoln, asserting they are ready to step up and represent Australia with pride if veteran shot-stopper Mackenzie Arnold is unavailable for Sunday's Women's Asian Cup opening match.
This declaration comes amid ongoing speculation about Arnold's fitness, following her limited participation in recent training sessions. On Friday, Arnold was observed at the Sam Kerr Football Centre, where she engaged in prehabilitation exercises outside before the main session and performed individual drills with a coach during the media-accessible window. However, she exited the field shortly after, leaving Whyman, Lincoln, and train-on goalkeeper Morgan Aquino as the sole custodians on the pitch.
Potential Blow for Matildas as Goalkeeper Situation Unfolds
The potential absence of Arnold would mark a significant setback for the Australian squad, particularly in light of Teagan Micah, her primary competitor for the number one jersey, being ruled out of the tournament due to concussion. Gorry, when questioned about Arnold's condition ahead of the clash with The Philippines at Optus Stadium, admitted she was not fully informed but emphasized unwavering trust in the backup options.
"I'm not too sure, to be honest. I've just been focusing on myself and on the players that are out on the pitch. The physios manage her," Gorry remarked regarding Arnold. "We have a great squad. I don't know Macca's case at all, whether she'll be out on the pitch or not, but regardless, we've got some great keepers in there. Maybe someone will get an opportunity, but I'm sure they're ready for it."
She further highlighted the credentials of Whyman, who is yet to make her senior debut for Australia, and Lincoln, who has earned three caps, noting their performances in competitive leagues. "They've been playing in good leagues. They've been playing good football, and for us, whoever's in goals, we trust them with everything. Regardless of who's out there, I think they're going to do a great job," Gorry added.
Positive Signs for Mary Fowler's Return and Team Morale
In more encouraging news, star forward Mary Fowler trained with the full squad for the second consecutive day, signaling a strong comeback from a torn ACL. Gorry expressed immense excitement about Fowler's return, stating, "I followed her journey closely. To have a player like her out on the field, it is really special for us, and whenever she's on the pitch, something exciting is always happening. I'm excited for her; she's got no pressure on her. She just needs to enjoy her football, enjoy the moment, and just be proud that she's been able to get back and push herself to how she is today."
Reflecting on the team's preparation, Gorry revealed she has been eagerly anticipating the tournament for the past six months. Despite fluctuating results since the 2023 Women's World Cup, she noted a robust sense of confidence within the group. With Australia not securing a major tournament victory since 2010, the West Ham midfielder believes the time is ripe to end the drought.
"The World Cup was massive for us, but now we've brought in a lot of players, got a lot of experience, and then obviously (coach) Joe Montemurro to top it all off, we're in a really good spot," she explained. "We've had some really up and down moments over the last couple of years, but that's what brought us all together and made us want more."
Gorry Emphasizes Tournament Challenges and Ambitions
Gorry also underscored the formidable nature of the Women's Asian Cup, comparing it to the European Championships in terms of competitive caliber. "It's one of the toughest tournaments. When we're over in Europe, they don't really understand it, but it's practically our Euros. The caliber of teams we have in this tournament is top tier, and it's going to push us hard. No game is going to be easy," she asserted.
Concluding with a rallying cry, Gorry expressed the team's determination to succeed. "We've got a lot of great players in the team, a lot of experience, a lot of players playing in great leagues across the world. It's our time to really stamp our foot on the Asian tournament and make sure we come home with the trophy."
