Soccer side ready for test Jul. 17, 2002. 01:00 AM Canadian women's squad seeks first win against Norway Norman Da Costa SPORTS REPORTER Even Pellerud has been at the helm of Canada's national women's soccer squad for less than three years, but in that time the team has improved to such an extent it is no longer considered fodder for the world's top teams. At Etobicoke's Centennial Stadium this evening, Canada faces powerhouse Norway in an exhibition match that should give Pellerud a good indication of the progress his squad has made as it prepares for World Cup qualifying play in October. Kickoff is at 7 p.m. Pellerud, who led his native Norway to the World Cup in 1995, has guided Canada to victories over the United States and China, but has yet to record a win against Norway. The Olympic champions sport a 5-0 record and have outscored Canada 25-3, including a 9-1 thumping last year. The quiet-spoken Pellerud is determined to turn the tables against a team he describes as among the top three of world soccer in the last 15 years. "We can beat Norway," said a confident Pellerud. "Definitely, it can be done. "Norway is back on top after two or three lean years and won the gold medal in Sydney. This game will give us the chance to assess where we stand in world soccer." Despite their record, the Norwegians are not taking anything for granted against Canada. "It is always good to play against strong teams like Canada as we prepare for the World Cup," said midfielder Hege Riise, the country's most experienced player with 165 caps. "We know that we will be in for surprises now that Even is coaching the Canadians and I can assure you that it will be a fast and entertaining match," said Riise, who plays professionally for the Carolina Courage. Riise added Pellerud is still fondly remembered in Norway for the work he did to develop women's soccer there. Current Norwegian coach Age Steen, who played professionally with Pellerud, acknowledges that work as well. "He has been a great coach and has the results to prove that," Steen said. "Now we get a chance to face a strong Canadian team that he has assembled. I know he has a number of new and exciting new players and some veteran players, so it should be a good match." Both teams are known for playing fast, attacking soccer. "We play a zonal defence and when we get the ball we attack," Steen said. "It is a system Pellerud used at home and we have stuck with it. And he uses the same style with Canada." Steen said he realizes that Canada will turn on the heat as it chases its first win over his team. But it's a different kind of heat that has Steen concerned. "It was cold and raining and only around 18 degrees when we left Norway. We come here and it is hot, and that may be a problem for us." Forecasts call for temperatures to be at least 30C at game time. Both teams will be at nearly full strength. Norway will be without goalkeeper Bente Nordby, while Canada will be missing striker Christine Latham because of university commitments, and defender Amy Walsh, who is out with an injury.
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