Australia A (2) vs. Canada (0)
Canada Men and Australia A faced each other last night in the first match of the CANgaroo Clash. The West Vancouver Field Hockey Club community was out in numbers to support Team Canada and witness the first match ever played on Rutledge Field – and an exciting match it was.
Canada came out strong. A quick break after the pushback down the field was rewarded with a penalty corner. Scott Tupper(Vancouver) aimed high, missing the net but earning another penalty corner. A goal line stick save was made on Tupper’s second low effort.
After some tentative play in the middle, Australia pushed through. Canadian Goal Keeper David Carter (Vancouver) held the Aussie’s back with excellent saves to keep the score 0 – 0.
“Carter had a strong game for us today,” says Head Coach Robin D’Abreo. “He kept us within reach of the result for the entire game and at key times made some momentum changing saves.”
Canada pushed forward offensively to penetrate the Australian circle and delighted the crowd with two free play chances. With five minutes in the first half, Australian Joshua Miller scored on a penalty corner. Carter’s determined play held strong, and prevented Australia from scoring again. The half ended at 0 – 1.
Mark Pearson (Tsawwassen, BC) started the second half with a pass into the Australian circle that just missed by a tip in. Both teams maintained short bursts of possession. Australia scored a free play goal in the 56th minute on a strong backhand by Craig Boyne from the top of the circle. Canada pressed in the final 5 minutes of play, but was unable to score.
“We are disappointed with the loss,” says Connor Meakin (Vancouver). “We had trouble putting the ball in the net even though we had good chances. The second half was much better and we were able to sustain pressure on their defense. We hope to build on each performance with the intention to win the series.”
DNP: S. Bissett, R. Hildreth, A. Kindler, Ken Pereira
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