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The Matildas have continued their winning start in the Asian Cup group stage, defeating an impressive and defensively resolute Philippines side 4-0.
After sweeping past Indonesia 18-0 on the first match day, many expected Australia to show similar dominance against the 64th-ranked side on Monday, but the Philippines - coached by Australia's former head coach, Alen Stajcic - posed more of a physical and tactical challenge to the tournament favourites.
Despite almost a dozen chances, the Matildas were kept scoreless heading into the half-time break as the Philippines showed the benefits of their lengthy pre-tournament camp and the sourcing of the majority of their squad from the US-based college development system.
Many of the Philippines players matched the Australians for pace and physicality, while Stajcic's characteristic organisational style forced Australia to work harder than expected to create openings in the first 45 minutes.