Slattery Scores as Hockeyroos Lose to USA

Hockey: Australia v USA

Athlete: Kathryn Slattery

Venue: Olympic Hockey Centre

The Hockeyroos remain winless after two matches of the 2016 Rio Olympic Games after suffering a 2-1 defeat at the hands of the USA on Day 3.

Following a scoreless first quarter the Americans took the lead in the second period before extending their advantage in the third term as Australia was reduced to first 10, then nine players.

Despite their numerical disadvantage in terms of personnel and scorecard, the Hockeyroos found a path back into the game when Western Australian Kat Slattery pounced on an error from the US defence to bundle the ball home from close-range and give the Aussies a sniff.

The final quarter was played at a frenetic pace, with the Australians throwing everything at the US goal, whilst the Americans were earning counter-attack opportunities to look for a third goal, to kill off the contest.

Neither side managed another goal, but the two teams finished with diametrically opposed records, with the US now two wins from two and the Australians two loses from as many matches.

US gained ascendency when Michelle Vittese converted from a penalty corner on 25 minutes. Caitlin Van Sickle doubled the lead when she finished off a team move after 43 minutes.

Adam Commens’ side next face India, needing a win to keep hopes of a quarter final appearance alive, whilst further matches against world number two Argentina and the un-predictable Japan conclude Australia’s group phase.

If the Hockeyroos can advance to the quarter-finals, a likely cross over match with World Champions and reigning Olympic gold medallists the Netherlands looms.

The inability to create goal-scoring opportunities hampered Australia for the second match in a row, whilst green and yellow cards also restricted Australia defensively, which was punished by USA for the second goal.