Team GB women battle to 0-0 draw with Sweden

Team GB women played out a goalless draw with Sweden in their first ever competitive match in the build-up to London 2012.

Hope Powell’s side showed plenty of signs of encouragement, but there is still plenty to do if Team GB are to compete for the gold medal at the Olympics.

Key striker Kelly Smith went close with a beautifully crafted lob that just missed the target, and later slotted home from 14 yards, only to see the effort ruled out for offside. Substitute Rachel Yankey struck the woodwork with a sweet left-foot strike, but Team GB failed to make any serious threats to the Swedish goal.

Sweden, who finished third at last year’s World Cup, had chances themselves – Caroline Seger wasted a glorious chance after captain Casey Stoner’s mistake had gifted Sofia Jakobsson possession. Seger then returned the favour by setting up strike partner Jakobbson, but her shot was well saved by Karen Bardsley.

The vast number of substitutions slowed the overall pace of the game, but Team GB needed substitute goalkeeper Rachel Brown to be alert to deny Lisa Dahlkvist.

Coach Hope Powell said: “Everybody has put themselves in a good position to start [against New Zealand]. It is great we have depth in the team and it’s difficult for me but when you have that depth you can bring players on with quality.”

Team GB kick off their London 2012 Olympic campaign against New Zealand on Wednesday.

The editorial unit