Slack defending proved Australia's downfall as they crashed 3-1 to Sweden in the women's football World Cup quarter-final in Germany overnight.
The four goals Australia conceded in their three group games had all been the result of defensive lapses but, sadly, the exuberant young Australians didn't learn their lessons.
They conceded two goals in the first 16 minutes against the Swedes, with the scorer of each unmarked inside the Australian penalty area.
A spectacular curling 40th minute shot from dual international Ellyse Perry halved the deficit and the Matildas started the second half well, but gave themselves a mountain to climb by committing a defensive howler in the 52nd minute.
Sweden striker Lotta Schelin pounced on a loose back pass from centre half Kim Carroll, pushed the ball around Australian goalkeeper Melissa Barbieri and pushed it into an unguarded net, sealing the win for the Scandinavians.
Sweden will face Japan in the semi-finals after the Japanese upset hosts and defending champions Germany to advance.
