WAIS Hockey Duo in Action as Australia Hosts Malaysia

WAIS hockey athletes Fergus Kavanagh and Graeme Begbie have represented the Australian Kookaburras in a two test series against Malaysia recently with the sides coming away with a win a piece.

With Adelaide hosting an international test match for the first time since 2002, the Australians were keen to demonstrate to the South Australian faithful what they have missed, storming to a 4-0 lead at the half time interval, through goals to Livermore, Kavanagh and a double to Schubert.

With the world’s second ranked side hosting the world number 16 Malaysia, it was little surprise that the Kookaburras continued to dominate the match, running out 8-1 victors.

What would come as a massive surprise however, was the 1-0 defeat Australia would suffer in the second test on Sunday.

A combination of resolute defence from Malaysia and some complacency from the Kookaburras left the home side licking its wounds, after a first defeat at the hands of the South East Asian nation since 1994.

The Malaysians embraced a nothing to lose attitude which would serve them well, as Australia frustrated and unnerved failed to create clear cut scoring opportunities, and when they did, were unable to capitalise.

And the Kookaburras would be made to pay on 52 minutes after Malaysia’s Muhammad Amin Rahim converted a penalty corner opportunity, winning the match for his country in the process.

The Kookaburras next assignment will be in Canberra where they will take on Malaysia, Canada and Australia A with the matches beginning on Wednesday 29 July.