The Hindu : Sport / Hockey : Australia edges out China

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Monday, May 05, 2008
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Australia edges out China

DARWIN: Olympic champion Australia edged out China in a penalty stroke shootout to sweep the four-nation field hockey tournament series here on Sunday.

The Australians prevailed 9-8 in the shoot-out after the scores were locked 2-2 at fulltime.

Although Australia remained undefeated throughout its eight games in the two tournaments, China took a lot of confidence out of Sunday’s match in which it pushed the world’s second-ranked side to the final whistle.

Australia led 2-0 shortly after halftime, but the determined Chinese fought back to level with 15 minutes left and force the final into extra-time.

The stroke shootout began sensationally when Jamie Dwyer missed the first attempt.

China converted its next two attempts but a brilliant save from keeper Stephen Mowlam and a disallowed Chinese goal gave the Australians a renewed chance.

The scores remained tied after both teams had taken five shots as the shoot-out moved into sudden death.

Both teams traded goals on the first three combined attempts but China’s fourth attempt hit the metal frame of the goal.

Luke Doerner converted his shot to hand the victory to the home team.

South Korea claimed the third place with a 4-3 win over India.

The results: Final: Australia 2 China 2 (Australia won penalty shootout 9-8). Playoff for third place: South Korea 4 India 3.

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