Kerr proves the catalyst in Aussies' Ireland rehearsal

Australia coach Tony Gustavsson credited a Sam Kerr halftime talk for the 4-0 win over the Czech Republic in Gosford on Thursday that kicked off Australia's Women's World Cup preparations.

The Matildas - who will face the Republic of Ireland in Sydney in their group opener this July - were scoreless at half-time in their opening match of the four-team Cup of Nations friendly tournament.

However two goals from Hayley Raso, a tap-in for Kerr and a late Clare Polkinghorne strike secured them a fifth straight victory.

Gustavsson said the Czechs had been selected to replicate the challenge the World Cup co-hosts will face against Ireland and that captain Kerr had helped fire their revival.

"It was Sam's half-time speech," the Swede told reporters.

"What we said at half-time was, 'what if this was the opening game of the World Cup with 80,000 in the stands, frustrated?' If we let that thought come to us emotionally, we probably don't see this second half.

"Sam also spoke about that. 'Don't freak out. Don't stress out. Believe in the plan, believe in the process, believe in the team mates'."

Gustavsson said Chelsea striker Kerr had got better at delivering the right message to her team-mates.

"She can be the passion and the heart of the team when need be, and drive people, demand, and be that voice," he said.

"But she can also be composed and distant and be very clear in her instructions. I definitely think she has grown with her leadership."

Polkinghorne's 84th-minute goal was a fitting way for the experienced defender to celebrate her 152nd international appearance, making her Australia's most capped player.

"Polks is basically the epitome of this team," said Manchester City winger Raso.

"She's incredible, she's an amazing leader, you