The Kookaburras have found their best form at the Azlan Shah Cup, scoring three unanswered second half goals to defeat Pakistan in Malaysia in their third match.
Pakistan, who have been one of the form teams to date at the tournament, stuck with the Kookaburras in the first half, with the game played at a fast pace which suited the Kookaburras.
However after failing to make the most of their chances in their opening two games, the Kookaburras demonstrated why they are reigning world champions by stepping it up in the second half to seal the win and give the young Kookaburra players plenty of confidence for the remainder of the tournament.
Australia almost drew first blood when Jason Wilson received a great pass from Glenn Turner in the third minute only to see keeper Imran Shah denying him of a goal.
However after several more chances the Kookaburras finally broke through when they were awarded a penalty stroke in the 23rd minute that was converted by Simon Orchard.
Pakistan drew level in the 28th minute when they converted a penalty corner to bring them back in the game.
But poor defending by Pakistan allowed Jason Wilson to collect the ball at the top of the circle and pick his spot to send the ball crashing past the Pakistan goalkeeper to give Australia a 2-1 lead a minute before halftime.
The Kookaburras continued their good form early in the second half when Simon Orchard scored their third goal at the 41 minute mark to give Australia a 3-1 lead.
Another goal by Chris Ciriello only ten minutes later gave the Kookaburras an unbeatable lead, and when Wilson completed his brace at the 55 minute mark the match was over.
The win sees the Kookaburras remain in contention to finish in the top two on the points table and give them a chance to play in the final.
Their next match will be against Korea on Wednesday 11 May at 8.05pm.
– Hockey Australia
