Australia have begun their World Cup campaign with a battling win over Ireland.
The Matildas took to Stadium Australia without superstar player Sam Kerr, with the Chelsea star ruled out of the first two matches after picking up a calf injury on Wednesday.
After enduring a frustrating opening 45 minutes in which they struggled to break down Ireland's resolute defence, the hosts got the breakthrough after Hayley Raso was brought down in the Irish penalty area.
Steph Catley stepped up and dispatched the spot kick to get her side's campaign up and running.