Matildas v Sweden, page-16

Until the semis Matildas had succeeded with the strategy of sitting back and allowing opposition possession, before launching counter attacks by Ford and Rasso down the flanks. Their strong defensive structure underpinned that plan.

However England and Sweden nullified this by spoiling and fouling to slow down their momentum. And with the loss of rock solid Kennedy in defence the plan quickly fell apart and we started conceding goals.

Ironically, we won crucial games without Kerr yet lost games with her playing when we reverted to hit n hope long balls up front. And we nearly got away with that against England until Kerr's lack of form and touch in front of open goals failed her.

IMO the wins against Canada then France showed the Matildas at their best playing fast entertaining football. Once Kerr returned that attacking structure fell away and Fowler in particular looked lost.

That and the punishing schedule Gustafson set the team by refusing to rotate the squad - it seemed he didn't have faith in the reserves to use them beyond 10 mins - meant after France the starting 11 were completely exhausted in the final two games.

A major issue for the Matildas is their lack of ball control and ability to maintain possession beyond two or three passes, especially so in the vital midfield. Watch all the top teams for evidence of the ball skills that we lack.

So I think we excelled beyond our capabilities at this tournament and can thank the determination and courage of the girls who clearly thrived with the massive support behind them to finish fourth.

Congratulations and well done Matildas, anyway. Looking good for next WC after this heartening performance.