Hockeyroos Show Grit in 2-2 Draw with Olympic Champion
The Hockeyroos produced a spirited first up display at the Investec Challenge in Cape Town, claiming a 2-2 draw with world number one and reigning Olympic champion the Netherlands.
The Hockeyroos opened the scoring in the eighth minute after the skilful Emily Smith won a penalty corner and Casey Eastham popped in the rebound.
Adam Commens’ players continued to press and defend with remarkable tenacity but the dam had to break and Maartje Paumen equalised in the 41st minute through a PC (1-1).
Star 21 year old Anna Flanagan set up the Hockeyroos’ second goal in the 56th minute through a well worked penalty corner. Flanagan drove home a pin point pass to Georgia Nanscawen who deflected the ball on the goal-line behind the keeper.
Hockeyroos coach Adam Commens was extremely satisfied with the output of high striker Georgia Nanscawen following the match.
“Georgia was excellent up front and created numerous chances,” he said.
There were many goal scoring opportunities in this match and a superb defensive display and fast counter-attacks served the Hockeyroos well. However, once again the relentless and technically blessed Dutch were not to be denied and Kelly Jonker equalised for the Dutch with four minutes left on the clock.
Commens was pleased with his team after the match, praising the young side’s efforts against a formidable opponent.
“After our training week and practice matches we were able to put together a much improved performance today.”
“As a young inexperienced team it is pleasing to see them grow each match, these types of challenging matches are what we are after and this tournament is an ideal way to begin the year.”
“After standout performances in the preparation, Teneal Attard was again strong however it was Jodie Schulzand Casey Eastham who really set the tone through the midfield,” Commens said.
Queensland debutant Kirsten Johnson is already making waves on the international circuit, showing she has the skill and determination to have a long career in the green and gold.
“I am also very pleased with the performance of Kirsten Johnson, her strength on the ball, speed of passing and aggression has been very good,” Commens said.
In the later game on day one, South Africa defeated world number four, England 4-1.
An entertaining start to the Investec Challenge sets up a mouth-watering clash between the Hockeyroos and South Africa tonight (Tuesday, 5 February 2013) at 8pm South Africa Standard Time (SAST).
AIS-WAIS scholarship holder Fiona Boyce is a member of the Hockeyroos squad in South Africa.
– Hockey Australia
