Sam Kerr scores as Australia end England’s unbeaten run with victory in London

The Matildas have bounced back from their loss to Scotland with a memorable win that ended England’s 30-match unbeaten streak.

Sam Kerr is congratulated by teammates Hayley Raso (right) and Tameka Yallop (left) after scoring for the Matildas. Picture: Ryan Pierse/Getty Images

Sam Kerr says while it’s “big news” that the Matildas beat England, the victory was only a small step on the road to what really counts this year – FIFA Women’s World Cup glory.

Boosted by the return of captain Kerr, the Matildas halted the Lionesses’ unbeaten run at 30 matches in London on Wednesday morning (AEST).

Having lost 1-0 to Scotland last Friday night without the services of Kerr, the Matildas bounced back in style despite England dominating possession.

Chelsea star Kerr gave Australia a first-half lead with her 63rd international goal.

The visitors then doubled their lead 21 minutes into the second half when left-back Charlotte Grant scored her first goal for the Matildas.

European and intercontinental champions England had a host chances to score in the second half but the Matildas held on to record a memorable win ahead of the which starts in July.

The major concern to come out of the contest for the Australians was a lower injury suffered by Tameka Yallop that forced the Norway-based attacking midfielder off five minutes before half-time.

Yallop, who at the end of the match was in a moon boot and on crutches, had only just returned to the side after recovering from an ankle injury.

Sydney FC’s Cortnee Vine, who came on as a replacement for Yallop, was also forced off late in the match with what seemed to be a calf injury, while Kerr limped off in the dying stages with a jarred knee.

Sam Kerr scores for the Matildas against England. Picture: Ryan Pierse/Getty Images

However, post-match, Kerr shrugged off any potential injury concern.

“I jarred my knee a little bit but I’ll be ready for (Aston) Villa on Sunday, that’s for sure,” said Kerr, who added that injury wasn’t the reason she missed Australia’s game against Scotland.

“I’ve had a big few months. I’ve got a bit of a sore foot but it was about the bigger picture.

“There’s a World Cup coming. Between the national team and Chelsea we’ve tried to figure the best plan for myself, which is best for both teams, and this week ... it was best that we managed my load.”

The Matildas capitalised on a mistake from England captain Leah Williamson to take the lead in the 32nd minute.

Williamson made a mess of her attempt to head a long ball from Matildas defender Clare Hunt back to her goalkeeper Mary Earps.

Kerr – who looked marginally offside when Hunt played the ball – pounced, reaching the ball before the oncoming Earps to lob the ball over the keeper and scored her 63rd goal for the Matildas.

Kerr had the chance to double Australia’s lead in the 50th minute after running on to a through ball from substitute Vine.

However, Kerr fluffed her shot and failed to hit the target.

England had a chance to equalise on the hour mark, but substitute Lauren James’ shot was well saved by Matildas keeper Mackenzie Arnold.

It was to prove a crucial save, with the Matildas doubling their lead in the 66th minute.

Scorer turned provider, with Kerr delivering a cross to the far post, where Grant was on hand to head the ball home with the aid of a deflection off the unfortunate Williamson.

“When people wake up (in Australia) and see that the Matildas beat England, it’s big news,” Kerr said.

“For us it’s a good win but we’re not getting too far ahead of ourselves.

“Beating England tonight doesn’t win us anything. We’ve got to take everything with a grain of salt before the World Cup.

“It’s just one step in the journey to the World Cup.”