Shanea Tonkin scores two as Hockeyroos make convincing start to Commonwealth Games

WAIS graduate Shanea Tonkin has helped guide the Hockeyroos to a convincing win over Kenya in the opening pool match of the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

Australia put the pressure on early with a goal in the opining three minutes from Kaitlin Nobbs, before Tonkin scored her first a minute later. Three more goals followed in the first two quarters giving the 2018 silver medallists a five goal advantage at the main break.

Early in quarter three Tonkin added her second of the match, extending the advantage further. With control of the ball, the Hockeyroos denied Kenya a single shot on goal over the 60 minutes to take a runaway 8-0 win.

Hockeyroos Head Coach Katrina Powell said there is plenty for her team to work and is expecting a much tougher assignment against South Africa tomorrow night.

“I think we maybe relaxed a little bit. You also have to give credit to Kenya as well,” said Powell.

“They obviously learnt a lot playing against New Zealand yesterday and it’s much tougher when teams sit back and don’t come at you.

“South Africa gave us a really difficult test at the World Cup. No doubt they will come out really strong tomorrow and expect to take points from it, so we better be on our game tomorrow.”

The Hockeyroos face South Africa for the next pool game on Monday morning.