Matildas record-breaker Clare Polkinghorne scores in thumping Aussie win
Legendary Australian defender Clare Polkinghorne had a dream night on Thursday, scoring a goal in a thumping win as she became the most capped Matilda in history.
Australia and the Czech Republic headed for the Central Coast Stadium sheds at half-time scoreless, but a flurry of goals after the break powered the hosts to a 4-0 triumph in front of a 7702-strong crowd.
Hayley Raso nabbed the first two goals of the Cup of Nations clash, off a ricochet and a header, before Sam Kerr extended the Matildas' lead to 3-0 when she bunted in a blocked ball from close range.
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Clare Polkinghorne scored a goal in a thumping Australian win as she became the most capped Matilda in history. Getty Images
Polkinghorne then iced the emphatic win in the 84th minute, glancing the ball past the Czech Republic goalkeeper off a cross.
In recognition of Polkinghorne's magnificent career, Matildas coach Tony Gustavsson had made the 34-year-old captain for the Gosford encounter.
Polkinghorne, who replaced Kerr as skipper in her milestone match, said she was "really proud" of clinching the Matildas games record.
"I love putting on this jersey and representing the country and the Matildas," Polkinghorne added on Channel 10's post-game coverage.
"It's just so nice to be back at home playing with this team. We had a few months apart, so it's nice to get back into training and finish our preparations for the World Cup."
Matildas midfielder Katrina Gorry had glowing words for Polkinghorne following the match.
"What an amazing achievement for such a great player," Gorry said on the Channel 10 broadcast.
"To be out here playing with her today and to get the win for her — it's really special.
"I'm really proud to have played alongside her for many, many years, and I'm sure she's got many (years) still left in her."
Polkinghorne collected her 152nd Matildas cap to pinch the games record from Cheryl Salisbury.
The Australians are now set to meet Spain at Sydney's CommBank Stadium on Sunday.
Spain downed Jamaica 3-0 at Central Coast Stadium earlier on Thursday.
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