Like a Fine Wine: A-League Star Proves to New Matildas Coach That She Still Has It

Michelle Heyman added another goal to her tally as the CommBank Matildas settled for a 1-1 draw against Slovenia in their international friendly match.

Heyman, a veteran of the Ninja A-League, opened the scoring on Sunday before Mirjam Kastelec’s stunning equaliser in stoppage time in Perth.

Joe Montemurro, the new head coach of the Matildas and a legend in the A-Leagues, made six alterations to the starting line-up that triumphed over Slovenia on Thursday, bringing in Heyman, Mackenzie Arnold, Remy Siemsen, Kyra Cooney-Cross, Charli Grant, and Kaitlyn Torpey.

Following a goalless first half, Heyman netted for Australia just five minutes after the break, as the 36-year-old Canberra United forward’s volley hit the back of the net.

“Much like a fine wine, Michelle Heyman only gets better with age,” remarked former Matilda Grace Gill during the live commentary on Paramount+.

“She’s showing the new coach that she still has what it takes. That was a superbly executed finish by the Matildas.”

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Just as Australia looked poised to extend their lead, a brilliant goal-line clearance thwarted their efforts, allowing Slovenia to equalise in the dying moments when Kastelec capitalised on a rebound.

Despite the draw, the Matildas continue to remain unbeaten under Montemurro, with three of their last four goals coming from Ninja A-League stars: Heyman, Melbourne Victory’s Emily Gielnik, and reigning Golden Boot winner Holly McNamara from Melbourne City.

During Sunday’s match, Gielnik and McNamara came off the bench, alongside Victory’s Alana Murphy and Western United captain Chloe Berryhill.

It was a triumphant return for Berryhill to the international stage after her previous comeback with the Matildas was cut short due to a concussion last December.

“I always adhere to the motto of trusting the process, so if I do everything right, I’m hoping for a positive outcome,” she shared with reporters.

“I’m incredibly grateful to have made it back to the national team. Wearing the jersey is always an honour, and being back with the girls is special.”

“I feel truly blessed. It’s been a long journey.”