AUSSIES WIN TITLE, INDIA FINISH LAST IN HOCKEY 9S EVENT

Australia edged out traditional rivals New Zealand 5-3 to win the men’s final of the inaugural International Super Series hockey in Perth on Sunday.

The home side were heavily favoured to win the innovative nine-a-side tournament, which also showcased other trial rules such as shortened 15-minute halves and widened goals, but faced a spirited Kiwi challenge.

In the men’s third place playoff, Pakistan thrashed India 4-1 to notch their first win of the tournament.

Muhammad Waqas scored a double for Pakistan, who led 2-1 at half-time having capitalised on two short corners, while India scored through Rajpal Singh with 10 seconds left in the half.
Another short corner conversion extended Pakistan’s lead in the 17th minute as Fareed Ahmed was left with a simple tap-in at the far post, before Waqas’ strike in the 20th minute put the issue beyond doubt.

The women’s final saw Australia recover from a goal down to beat India 4-1.

Australia dominated early, but India opened the scoring through Soundarya Yendala in the ninth minute. However, Australia struck back through Hope Munro and Kellie White and led 2-1 at the break. The home side broke the game open early in the second half with goals to Marnie Hudson and Ashleigh Nelson within 60 seconds.