The SPAR South African Women’s Hockey team lost their opening World Cup match to Australia 1-nil, but will take confidence from a spirited second half performance from the likes of Kate Hector, Caroline Jack and Tarryn Hoskins, as they prevented Australia from increasing their lead.
With a total of 6 short corners and 15 shots on goal, an under-par Australia failed to impress the television commentary team.
“Australia lead 1-0,” intoned the disappointed Australian shortly before the game ended, “But not convincingly.”
By contrast, the South African side ably lead by Marsha Marescia played well above par, though they failed to net the ball in four shots on goal, and the three short corners of the game were well closed down by Australia.
Dirkie Chamberlain had the best of South Africa’s chances in the second-half’s 30th minute, when she found herself with the ball and two defenders in the circle, but again the defence did their job, giving Chamberlain no time to shoot.
Still, South Africa did well to improve their ball possession to above 45% in the second half, and nuggety play from a variety of players prevented Australia from assuming their controlling style.
Hoskins may be considered the most significant player on the day, after she was hailed as “[The] glue that holds [South Africa’s] defence together” for her tireless play.
Jack was impressive in the goal, and when a robust attack tumbled her for a short corner, her play was unruffled, and she continued to withstand the down-under’s worst in the second half.
Earlier in the first half, South Africa got off to a shaky start, but the team’s opening nerves will not disturb coach Jenny King.
That the mighty Australia failed to score until 2mins before half-time is testament to a gritty performance by South Africa, who lost all 3 tournament warm-up games, also against Australia, 7-1; 3-1; and 3-1.
South Africa’s upcoming B Pool Match Schedule:
Thursday 28th September: 14h00 South Africa vs. Korea
Saturday 30th September: 18h00 South Africa vs. Argentina
Monday 2nd October: 14h00 South Africa vs. USA
Wednesday 4th October: 12h30 South Africa vs. Japan
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