The Australian women’s team has defeated trans-Tasman rival New Zealand in their second match of the Oceania Cup on the Sunshine Coast to secure top spot on the points table.
The first half saw the tightest hockey of the Cup so far with both teams unable to find the back of the net, thanks to some solid defense from each side.
New Zealand started well but were unable to take an early lead, failing to convert two penalty corners in the opening minutes. The Hockeyroos best chance for a score came in the 17th minute from a penalty corner which saw two shots desperately saved by the Kiwis.
After the break, the Hockeyroos began to control possession and drew three early corners which they were unable to convert. The game continued at a fast pace with both sides finding their way into the circle on a number of occasions but still neither could find their way past the defense.
It was Madonna Blyth who finally broke the deadlock, her deflection beating the keeper to give the Australians a handy 1-0 lead with 7 minutes left on the clock. This would be the only score, the Hockeyroos holding on to notch up their second win for the tournament.
Hockeyroos coach Frank Murray was once again happy with the Hockeyroos performance. "I thought it was a very good game. It was fast and open and in the end we managed to take and opportunity."
"We'll have to play better if we're going to win on Sunday, especially in our penalty corners, but I thought tonight was an indication of the quality of New Zealand."
Australia 1 New Zealand 0 (Half Time 0-0)
Australia - Madonna Blyth 63m FG
Source: Hockey Australia
