Australia grab dramatic victory over New Zealand

JOHANNESBURG: Australia confirmed their reputation as comeback kings at the Men’s Hockey World League in Johannesburg by snatching a 2-1 victory over great rivals New Zealand Saturday.

Jared Panchia finished off a move on 39 minutes to put the Kiwis ahead in the Pool A matchday 4 clash at the University of the Witwatersrand.

But the never-say-die spirit of an Australian team in transition, with several young stars being blooded, surfaced during the final quarter.

Jeremy Edwards levelled from a 53rd- minute penalty corner, smashing the ball into the goal at the second attempt after his initial shot was blocked.

With 38 seconds remaining of a match that captivated the capacity crowd, Josh Pollard struck the winning goal off another penalty corner.

Australia came from two goals behind to edge France 3-2 in their opening match before scoring twice in the closing minutes to beat Spain 2- 0 two days ago.

“We are getting used to coming from behind to win matches and this emphasises the wonderful fighting spirt within the squad,” said Australia coach Colin Batch.

“There is still a lot of work to do, however, as we should be scoring more goals given the number of circle penetrations that we make.

“It was a very tough match for us with New Zealand playing really well, especially in defence after they took the lead.”

Australia captain Mark Knowles hailed the youngsters as Australia took a three-pont lead in the pool with a match against bottom team Japan to come Monday.

“The younger players are wonderful to be with. They carry no ‘baggage’ and just want to play hockey.

“That is what it is all about — playing the game and grinding out victories, like this one against New Zealand.”

Spain got back on the winning trail, with a goal one minute from time by Enrique Gonzalez sealing a 2- 0 victory over European neighbours France.

Pau Quemada had put the Spaniards ahead at the end of the third quarter from a penalty corner.

Australia have nine points, Spain six and New Zealand and France four, and all have secured quarter- finals places, leaving pointless Japan to contest ninth place next week.

A brilliant one- handed save from goalkeeper Tobias Walter ensured Germany a 3-2 victory over Belgium in a top- of-the-table Pool B showdown.