Colombia (1) v (10) Zambia
By Dhugal Bedingfield
COLUMBIA were no match for Zambia in the top of the table women's clash on Melbourne Pitch, the Africans finishing comfortable 10-1 winners to move two games clear.
Merinda Namafe was the best player on the pitch, scoring four goals from defence whilst keeping things tight at the back.
The Colombians had every reason to feel confident before the match and made a positive start, controlling possession early. Both sides tried to probe away to no avail until Namafe struck twice in the space of a minute. Colombia simply couldn't find a way past Colombia's defence led admirably by Irene Mpundu and any speculative efforts on goal were comfortably handled by Zambian keeper Christabel Chiluba.
Colombia started the second half three goals behind and things quickly got worse with the introduction of Edinasha Mambwe who hastily took the margin to five, in the process bringing up her hatrick with a sumptuous left foot finish past Viviana Riveros Pulido. The Colombian keeper earned some respect moments later with a fine penalty save but the highlight of the match came soon after when Namafe scored with a blistering shot from her own half that sailed into the top corner.
Maryury Moreno Ramos scored a consolation late goal for Colombia following a beautiful side step but it was too little, too late.
With their power, work rate and poise in front of goal many in the crowd were left wondering if anyone can even get close to Zambia as the tournament heads towards its conclusion.
Photos: Photoworx
