Brisbane Roar coach Garrath McPherson is adamant Georgina Worth will bounce back from the horror goalkeeping error that gifted Perth Glory a 2-1 A-League Women victory.
Glory levelled the scores courtesy of Susan Phonsongkham's 88th-minute strike, but there was even greater drama in the 90th minute when Worth attempted to trap a back pass only for the ball to slide off her foot and into the net.
The moment was the stuff of nightmares for any goalkeeper, but McPherson said Worth has what it takes to overcome the setback.
"We've all made mistakes. It happens," McPherson said.
"What I do like is that even in the 90th minute, she still had the courage to try to put her foot on the ball and help us control the game and dictate the game.
"The brain's changed her decision halfway through it looks like, and it's resulted in what it has. She'll learn from that. She's a professional.
"She's a leader in the team, she will rebound - she's shown that before."
Roar were unlucky not to come away with the win after controlling the match for large periods.
Brisbane recorded nine shots to one in the first half, and they had some golden chances in the second half as well.
But Glory pushed hard in the final 10 minutes and were rewarded with two goals in the space of three minutes.
The two teams are due to face off again in Brisbane next Friday, but Queensland's growing COVID crisis has the potential to alter those plans.
Despite not coming away with the win in their season opener, McPherson was proud of his team's efforts.
"It sucks not being able to get back on the plane with three points in the bag, being that close. I think that one will sting with the player group," McPherson said.
"I think as athletes they will be angry and a little bit upset about losing and not winning points
"But the message that we shared in there is don't let three minutes define 93 minutes."
Australian Associated Press
