Australian men’s hockey team lifts gold medal in the maiden version of Lanco International Super Series
The men’s hockey team of Australia maintained its unbeaten record, winning the gold medal in the first version of the Lanco International Super Series, held at the Perth Hockey Stadium, in Australia, on October 23.
The Kookaburras edged past New Zealand by 5-3 in a fast-paced game with new rules. The grand finale that was played between nine players from each side and that lasted 30 minutes, with two halves of 15 minutes each, was witnessed by a large number of people.
The two line-ups did not disappoint the organisers who introduced the new hockey format to make it a more exciting and a thrilling sport.
Ric Charlesworth, the man behind the innovative event and the coach of the Kookaburras team, was quite satisfied with the open style of the game. He expressed great pleasure while terming it as a successful experiment.
Explaining the positive aspect of the nine-a-side event, he stated, “If you look at the stats, we are generating the same amount of chances in this form of the game than what we would usually get in a full 70 minutes in a regular game so there is a lot of
action”.
Apart from the defeat, Black Sticks’ coach, Shane McLeod, was satisfied with the overall performance of the team throughout the tournament.
He underscored his sentiments, “We took the game to the Australians today and the boys played really well. After our performances in the Oceania Cup earlier this month, it is clear that we are improving all the time and we are now pushing the world number
one team every time we play them”.
Kookaburras’ skipper, Eddie Ockenden, in a delighted state of mind said that they played some great hockey in the novel format and were looking forward to more of such games in future.
He was of the view that the fast-paced hockey will help them in preparing for the 2012 London Olympics.
Despite the commitment and determination of the Kiwi side, the host, Australia, got off to a great start.
The Kookaburras put the opponents under extensive pressure and it was not long before they drew the first blood, in the third minute of the first half.
Glenn Simpson scored the first goal of the match while his teammate, Russell Ford, doubled the tally soon after, in the forth minute of the play.
Blair Hilton leveled the score, marking two goals in the 8th and 14th minutes, respectively.
With one minute left into the first half, Jamie Dwyer accounted for a goal, regaining a slight lead over the opponents.
Although the Kiwi team opened the score in the second half of play, at the hands of Stephen Jenness, it failed to uphold its level.
Liam DeYoung and Glenn Turner scored one goal apiece, sealing the victory for Australia at 5-3.
The Kookaburras not only upheld their winning streak but also clinched the introductory edition of the nine-a-side Lanco International Super Series.
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