In fact the Aussies were the highest placed non European team and took out the plate competition, finishing fifth overall.

It was a pleasing performance for Meehan who was co-captain of the Australian team, however her tour didn’t pan out as planned when a serious ankle injury cut her time on the court short.

The initial draw had the Aussies up against Russia and Spain who are ranked number one and two in the world.

After four tough preliminary rounds the Australians were relegated from the European Cup qualifications and placed into the Plate division.

While the preliminary rounds were physical the side went into the semi-finals three players down, as injuries started to take their toll.

And this included Meehan who sustained a serious ankle injury and had to miss the finals.

But the Australians regrouped to defeat host nation Italy in the semi-finals and then the Ukraine in the final, 2-nil, to take home the European Plate trophy.

“Overall we finished 5th in the whole competition which is the highest any touring Australian Women’s Futsal team has finished in any overseas competition,” Meehan said.

“As captain it was difficult to watch the final from the sideline, but I was proud of the team to achieve what they did and take the final against such strong competition.

“We have now set our own benchmarks as a team and have shown that we are competitive with many of the European nations. “

The European Cup is being held in Russia next year and Meehan has already been asked to again lead the team.

“Provided I remain injury free I would relish the chance to lead the Australian team once again and hopefully go one better than what we achieved in Italy,” she said.