Australia’s Injury toll grows as Fowler and Luik join Kerr on the sidelines at the Women’s World Cup

By LUKE WINSTEL
Associated Press

Brisbane, Australia (AP) — Mary Fowler has joined star striker Sam Kerr on the injury list in a setback for Australia’s attacking options ahead of the Group B game against Nigeria at the Women’s World Cup. Kerr has a calf muscle injury which is keeping her out of Australia’s opening two games — at least. Manchester City striker Fowler replaced Kerr in Australia’s 1-0 opening win against Ireland. But Fowler and defender Aivi Luik sustained mild concussions in separate practice accidents this week and have been ruled out of Thursday’s game against Nigeria in Brisbane. The Matildas remain confident they have the depth in the their 23-player squad to cover injuries.