Malone goal boosts win

THE Hockeyroos started their World Cup campaign with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Japan at the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre yesterday.

Goals from rising Gold Coast product Rosie Malone (17th) and Emily Hurtz (22nd) had the Hockeyroos two up at halftime before Jodie Kenny extended the margin five minutes into the second half.

The win put fifth-ranked Australia top of Pool D with three points.

The Hockeyroos next play Belgium tomorrow night at 11pm.