Hockeyroos start Spar Cup with a win

Wednesday, 03 June 2009

The Hockeyroos have been forced to work hard for their first victory at the Spar Cup, overcoming a desperate Indian team to win 3-1 overnight in South Africa.

Despite dominating India in terms of circle penetrations (Hockeyroos total 51 India total 15) the desperation of the Indian defence reduced the Hockeyroos scoring ability.

Emily Hurtz once again began the match in good form after scoring two goals during the Hockeyroos last encounter with India only days earlier, opening the Hockeyroos scoring at the 15 minute mark via a penalty corner conversion.

This was the only score of the first half, and when India scored the first goal after half time the Hockeyroos knew they had a game on their hands.

Showing a degree of professionalism the Hockeyroos didn’t panic, with future star Casey Eastham once again handing Australia the lead at the 51 minute mark via a penalty corner goal.

The game remained a tight encounter, but when defender Kobie McGurk scored the Hockeyroos third goal with only five minutes remaining the result was put beyond doubt.

Hockeyroos coach Frank Murray praised the Indian defence after the match.

“We have started the tournament with a hard fought win against a quick and skilful Indian team. We had the greater percentage of the attack but could not convert circle penetration with goals due to the desperate defence of the Indians,” said Murray.

Hockeyroos co-captain Madonna Blyth and youngster Alison Bruce were amongst the team’s best players.

The Hockeyroos will now face Argentina in round 2 of the Spar Cup on Wednesday 3 June.

Hockeyroos 3 India 1 (1-0 half time)
Goals Hockeyroos – Hurtz 15m PC, Eastham 51m PC, McGurk 65m PC
India – Thokchom 49m FG

Hockey Australia media release