Denning and the Jillaroos Claim Win Over USA

WAIS scholarship holder Kate Denning and her Jillaroos team mates have recorded their first victory of the 2009 Women’s Junior World Cup, defeating hosts the USA 2-1 in Boston.

Determined to make amends for their recent loss to India, the Jillaroos were the first to score thanks to Tegan Holcroft at the 17 minute mark. When Marnie Hudson scored the Jillaroos second goal Australia created a commanding lead, however with the US having three more circle penetrations in the first half the game remained fairly even.

Eventually the USA’s hard work was rewarded when Marta Malmberg scored her team’s first goal at the 44 minute mark.

From here the structure of the match changed, with the Jillaroos doing whatever it took in the second half to defend their lead.

Despite the USA having four shots on goal in the second half they were unable to penetrate the Jillaroos defence.

The Jillaroos will next play Belarus on Thursday 6 August and are currently third in their pool standings.

– Hockey Australia