Hockeyroos Victors Against Japan
Hockeyroos were victors in the 2018 Hockey World Cup match in London, defeating Japan 3-2. Ranked 5th in the world, Australia were a better side in the encounter. They were on the front foot at the early stages of the game. It seemed like Japan was already rooted in the earlier stages. Ambrosia Malone scoring from a penalty corner in the 17th minute, and it showed that Australia was on the right wavelength.
Emily Hurtz gave Aussie an edge five minutes later with a wonderful field goal. The Hockeyroos went to halftime with a 2-0 advantage. The team was feeling solid and confident with the result thus far.
Australia came back from the halftime with the high level of momentum. Jodie Kenny utilised on the momentum and she scored a penalty corner taking Australia to a 3-0 lead. Three to the good!
A few moments later, the Japanese side got back into the match when Motomi Kawamura pulling one back for the underdogs. Japan was now filled with confidence after Kawamura’s goal. They dominated the match with passionate gameplay. They became a real threat to the Hockeyroos as they attacked from all angles trying to get something out of the encounter.
Aussie stood firm and focused as they managed to halt some powerful shots from the Japanese side. Their goalie Rachel Lynch was the hero of the day as she produced some big saves to keep the team on the driving seat. Jodie Kenny was awarded Vitality Best Player of the match after she led her team to victory.
Hockeyroos in their next encounter they will battle it out against Belgium on Tuesday, July 24.
Other Results
In Pool C Germany defeated South Africa 3-1, in a pulsating encounter. Elsewhere England and India shared the spoils drawing 1-1. USA had a surprise 3-1 loss to Ireland in Pool B.
