A women's int'l friendly match "will take precedence over a domestic men's national cup final," with Football Federation Australia set to reschedule the FFA Cup decider "due to a clash of dates with the Matildas," according to Dominic Bossi of the SYDNEY MORNING HERALD. This year's FFA Cup final is reportedly "set to be moved from its original date" of Nov. 22 after the Matildas' friendly against China at AAMI Park in Melbourne "was booked for the same date." To maintain "the Matildas' momentum," FFA is prepared to "move one of its marquee fixtures to avoid any potential distraction." While a venue for the FFA Cup is yet to be confirmed, "it is understood the final will likely take place either a day before or after" the Matildas' first match against China as part of their two-game series in Victoria. FFA is reportedly eager to "harness the public support surrounding the Matildas," particularly in Victoria, where Australian Football League Women's "made a large impact in its debut season" (SMH, 9/20). In Melbourne, Neelima Choahan reported the Matildas "are bringing their roadshow to Victoria." The two-game int'l series against China will be held in Melbourne and Geelong in November. Victorian Sports Minister John Eren "is confident the team will draw close to capacity crowds." Eren said that the series "was an opportunity for the Matildas to showcase their talent, boost women's sports" and attract more tourists to Victoria. He said, "We are so proud of our Matildas. We want the Matildas to shine" (THE AGE, 9/20).
RAISING THE BAR: The AAP's Rob Forsaith reported Cricket Australia CEO James Sutherland said that record crowds at recent women's football internationals in Australia "have given local cricket fans something to aspire to." The Matildas attracted 15,089 supporters to their recent clash with Brazil in Penrith, "then 16,829 packed in to watch them defeat the same opposition in Newcastle." Sunderland said, "The great crowds the Matildas have attracted ... that's something for Australian cricket fans to aspire to. We've seen in recent times a really strong wave of public support for women's sport. It doesn't get any bigger than an Ashes" (AAP, 9/20).
