Hockeyroos Defeat Germany
The Hockeyroos have made a statement after their disappointing loss to New Zealand at the Champions Trophy, producing a great 1-0 win over world number 3 team Germany tonight in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
The Hockeyroos needed at least a two goal win to give themselves a chance to progress to the medal rounds and although they weren’t able to do that, this win could prove more important in the long run as it gives belief and confidence to the young Australian team.
After a frustrating loss to New Zealand on Sunday in which Australia’s defensive efforts were questionable, they responded in the best possible fashion tonight, hassling Germany throughout the match and causing several turn overs.
As has been the case all tournament, the Hockeyroos were able to put themselves in goal scoring positions on a number of occasions, but just lacked the polish to finish with a goal.
Germany started the match well, putting the Australian defence under early pressure. However thanks to the efforts of goalkeeper Rachael Lynch they were able to withstand two early penalty corner attempts.
The increased defensive efforts from the Hockeyroos was obvious, with the younger brigade including Kellie White and Georgie Parker fighting for every loss ball and applying lots of pressure.
Former young world player of the year Casey Eastham was instrumental in the midfield and almost got the Hockeyroos on the board after receiving a pass from Emily Hurtz in the circle, however the shot was well saved.
With some near goal attempts gone begging the Hockeyroos were not able to get on the scoreboard in the first half however their intent was obvious as they more than held their own against their more experienced opponents.
Pleasing coach Adam Commens, the Hockeyroos did not let up with their intensity after half time, continuing to smoother Germany and give them little room.
When Germany received a yellow card with 13 minutes to go the Hockeyroos made the most of the opportunity, with young striker Emily Hurtz really stepping up to be a focal point for Australia near goals.
Australia’s best chances came from cracking shots by Hurtz and White at the top of the circle, but when both were saved it looked as though the Hockeyroos were going to once again be made the pay for not being able to convert.
However when they were awarded their 6th penalty corner of the match with only four minutes remaining, Jodie Schulz finally got Australia their much deserved first goal, scoring their first penalty corner goal of the tournament from 16 attempts.
The final minutes were frantic with Germany desperate for an equaliser but the Hockeyroos defence held firm, delivering their first win of the tournament and a huge boost of confidence for the young team.
Although fifth place is the best the Hockeyroos can now finish, there is still much to play for as the new players gain valuable and much needed experience against some of the world’s best teams.
Adam Commens said he was pleased with the team’s efforts, but identified that they need to work on converting their opportunities near goal.
“It was certainly an improved effort from last game and easily our best game to date at the tournament. They (Germany) weren’t able to really get too many dangerous shots away while we had a three or four good chances. We need to become more accurate from penalty corners and from scoring in general as we had some chances that we should have put away. But I think that will come from more experience,” said Commens.
Although the Hockeyroos can no longer win a medal, it will be equally important to their development that they build from this win and continue their form for the remainder of the Champions Trophy.
-Hockey Australia