Mary Fowler’s moment of brilliance for Matildas

In a dazzling moment during Wednesday night’s Matildas game in Perth, Mary Fowler nailed a long-range strike to secure Australia’s first goal.

It was a moment of individual brilliance, highlighting the skill of 20-year-old Fowler who has cemented her place as one of the team’s most valuable players.

The Matildas won the Olympic qualifying game against Chinese Taipei 3-0, with two other goals – one from Sam Kerr and the other from Tameka Yalllop. 

Kerr managed to secure the Matildas’ 900th goal. But it was Fowler’s goal that had everyone talking. 

“I think in those moments, you’re not really thinking too much,” Fowler said after the win. “You’re just doing them off instinct and trying them out.”

“Sometimes they work, sometimes they don’t. I had a few chances in the first half and that one in the second half went in.”

As CODE Sports’ Lachlan McKirdy highlighted on X, Fowler’s international career at the age of 20 has already surpassed that of Australian superstar Sam Kerr at the same age.

“To put into perspective how good Mary Fowler is… Sam Kerr (only!) had three international goals when she was 20. Mary Fowler already has 13!!!” he wrote.

While there are a range of factors that contribute to these statistics, including the incredible development of the entire Matildas side in recent years, it shows the potential of Fowler, who is still so young.

Fowler’s performance during this series of Olympic qualifying matches comes after she’s recieved substantial game time for her club, Manchester City in the English Women’s Super League.

Speaking about Fowler last week, coach Tony Gustavsson said: “We always knew that Mary had a special ability as a footballer. Her technique and her vision is unique – had been from day one when I worked with her.”

With the Matildas securing their win over Chinese Taipei, they have moved through to the next stage of qualifiers for the 2024 Paris Olympics. The next round begins in February.