Football Ferns defeat China again

The Football Ferns have beaten China 1-nil at North Harbour Stadium, their second win over the highly rated side in three days.

Amber Hearn netted her 30th international goal for New Zealand.

Coach Tony Readings says it was another solid performance.

"We looked comfortable in possession at times, maybe not as comfortable as on Sunday, but defensively we looked solid and we didn't really give them too much so they probably would've had more of the possession than we did, particularly in the first half."

Readings says it was a gutsy win.

"Really pleased to back up the win on Sunday. I don't think we were as dominant, China we expected them to step it up, but I think when you go to the Olympics, you're never going to get it easy, and these a games are what we're using as our preparation. Sometimes you have to dig out a 1-nil win."

The Football Ferns next face Australia in two internationals beginning Sunday in Wollongong.

Photo: Photosport