SYDNEY: A decision by merchandise manufacturers to not sell replica goalkeeper shirts from the women’s World Cup has sparked outrage from fans, reported German news agency (dpa).
A petition demanding the replica goalkeeper jerseys be made available for fans has been signed by almost 40,000 people.
Australia goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold, who made three saves in the record penalty shoot-out that sent the Matildas into their first ever semifinals, said she hoped the jerseys would be available in the future.
“It would obviously be really cool to see kids – or anyone, really – with the goalkeeper jersey on,” Arnold said during a press conference ahead of Wednesday’s semifinal.
“Especially seeing how well goalkeepers have done throughout this whole tournament.”
Arnold, who was named player of the match in the quarter final thriller against France, was unsure why the replica kits weren’t on offer.
“I haven’t looked too much into it, to be honest. I’ve been more focused on the World Cup. But that would be cool in the future.”
There are no goalkeeper jerseys available through the official Fifa store for any team in the women’s World Cup.
Prior to the tournament, England goalkeeper Mary Earps told The Guardian she had been “fighting behind closed doors” to get the jerseys available, even offering to pay for production herself.
“On a personal level, it is hugely hurtful considering the last 12 months especially. There has been an incredible rise in goalkeeping participation,” she told The Guardian.
The online petition calls on signatories to “unite, and demand this decision is over turned,” it reads.
“Let’s make them see just how important our female goalkeepers are. How respected they are and how many young girls aspire to join them in the future. Any type of exclusion is unacceptable in this day and age, and we need to show we will not stand for it.” – BERNAMA-dpa
