Hockeyroos Defeat South Africa 1-0

The Hockeyroos have held off a determined South Africa to win 1-0 and keep their semi-finals hopes alive today at Riverbank Arena.

In what was a must-win match, the Hockeyroos clearly had the better of the first half, generating four penalty corners. However none were converted, with their goal coming via a brilliant goal from Jade Close.

South Africa lifted towards the end of the half, generating their own penalty corner which was well saved by goalkeeper Toni Cronk who continues her brilliant form at the Olympics.

South Africa continued their form early after half time, generating their second penalty corner. However the ball was well run down, with the Hockeyroos defence denying a shot to be taken.

Australia were given another chance to score with another penalty corner, their fifth overall, however the shot taken by Anna Flanagan was once again well saved.

Desperate to at least get a point off Australia, South Africa continued to push and when they were awarded two penalty corners in the dying minutes, they looked a real threat to tie the game.

However once again Toni Cronk proved to be unstoppable in goals, saving both corners to ensure the Hockeyroos held on for the win and celebrate Casey Eastham’s 150th game in style.

“I thought we started well, our first 20 to 25 minutes we were very good. Towards the end of the half South Africa performed well. In the second half we composed ourselves however they were still able to create a few opportunities. It was a hard fought contest and I’m happy to get the three points,” said Hockeyroos coach Adam Commens.