HOCKEY: The Australian hockey teams got the competition off to the perfect start with the women winning first up over Great Britain in a high quality clash and then the men defeated the United States of America.

The Australian Jillaroos started with a strong 3-0 win over Great Britain on Wednesday.

Great Britain had the edge early against the Australians. They produced several chances, but were kept scoreless by Australian goalkeeper, Audrey Smith.
Murphy Allendorf scored the first of Australia’s three goals. Mariah Williams converted a penalty corner right on half time and with just three minutes left in the match, Madison Fitzpatrick converted another penalty corner to give her side the 3-0 win.

“I was very happy, we followed on from a three test series and learnt a few things about GB,” Australian coach Craig Victory said.

In the other women’s fixture, China was too good for the USA prevailing 5-2, after leading 2-1 at half time.

The Australian Burras were too strong for the USA. Cameron Joyce and James Knee were in top form, sharing in some of Australia’s seven goals. Strong defence ensured they also managed to hold the United States scoreless. At half-time it looked ominous for the visitors trailing 0-4.

In the other men’s fixture, Great Britain got their tournament off to a strong start with a 7-3 win over Malaysia. The Brits also led 4-0 at half-time and after Day 1 it looks like Australia and Great Britain could fight it out for gold in the men’s while the British women can’t be underestimated despite a first round loss to Australia. China could threaten for the title also.

Beau Greenway
Olympics.com.au

Follow the AYOF on Twitter @AYOF2013   #AYOF2013