Hockeyroos Make Bright Start to Qualifying

The Hockeyroos appear on target to qualify for the 2010 World Cup, winning their first game of the World Cup Qualifier event against host nation Chile in Santiago on Sunday.

The 5-0 victory will be a huge confidence boost to the Hockeyroos, with Australia controlling the match from the opening whistle.

After generating two penalty corners for no result in the first ten minutes of play, Amy Korner eventually began the proceedings for the Hockeyroos, converting the first goal via their third penalty corner attempt at the 15 minute mark.

The Hockeyroos continued to control the match, scoring their second goal of the contest only ten minutes later thanks to AIS-WAIS scholarship holder Ashleigh Nelson to further extend the Australian lead.

Despite their dominance on the field the Hockeyroos were unable to transfer it to the scoreboard, faced by a determined Chilean team who restricted the Hockeyroos to only two goals in the first half.

It took the Hockeyroos only eight minutes after half time to add to their goal tally, with Ashleigh Nelson scoring her second goal and ultimately putting the result beyond doubt.

Captain Madonna Blyth scored the Hockeyroos fourth goal only minutes later after an impressive combination from the Australian forwards.

Although they trailed heavily on he scoreboard, Chile remained determined and threw every at Australia in a bid to find their first score. However the Hockeyroos defence led by Nicole Arrold and goalkeeper Toni Cronk was too strong and ensured the goal sheet remained blank.

The Hockeyroos inflicted the final blow with Kate Hollywood scoring their fifth goal at the 55 minute mark.

Despite the determination of the home team the Hockeyroos were never really challenged and will be looking to continue their form throughout the tournament.

– Hockey Australia