Crediting pure grit, belief and determination, the Hockeyroos were forced to pull off a mammoth effort under the lights in Paris to fight back from a two goal deficit at halftime.

Australia had chances early, including a shot on goal in the opening minute, but it was the reigning Tokyo Olympic silver medallists who would get on top early, and fast. 

Argentina bagged a double within 60 seconds, the first through a scrappy field goal, then a penalty corner, putting the Hockeyroos under immense pressure to fight back.

In the second half, Australia changed up the game, maintaining possession and testing the Argentinian defence. 

After ruing missed shots on goal and two penalty strokes, hard work finally paid off for the Hockeyroos as Kaitlin Nobbs delivered a powerful shot at a crucial moment to swing momentum and reduce the deficit.

Right on the three-quarter time buzzer, Stephanie Kershaw delivered off a penalty corner but with ten minutes remaining in the match Argentina found a way to claw the lead back. 

Argentina had all but won the match with one second remaining, then drama ensued as Australia earned a penalty corner and a last-ditch attempt to save the match and their unbeaten run. 

As the full-time hooter sounded, Mariah Williams delivered, levelling the scores and silencing the passionate Argentinian crowd.

The Hockeyroos remain unbeaten with a game to play. They’ll take on Spain in their last pool match before the quarter-finals on Sunday.

Kristina Eddy