Storm thrashed by Canterbury after getting off to slow start

A SLOW start resulted in the Southern Storm falling to a hefty loss in its National Hockey League bottomfour semifinal yesterday

Five goals in the first 17 minutes enabled Canterbury to stamp its dominance, setting the platform for it to run away with a 71 win in Wellington.

It was a Canterbury team that looked to have a point to prove, having underperformed throughout the week.

Rachel McCann scored the opening three goals — two coming in the first five minutes — as Southern struggled to contain the onslaught.

Margot Willis then chipped in with one just before the end of the first quarter, before adding another to start the second.

Coach Tina BellKake said the goals had come as a result of some loose marking in the circle, with the Southern players caught moving away from their opponents.

However, the team was able to regroup and dominate the rest of the second and third quarters.

Midfielder Tessa Jopp got one back for the Storm in the 25th minute but, while the team was able to create attacking chances, it was the only goal Southern could manage.

The Storm defence held well until a further soft goal to Willis came in the 56th minute, before McCann added her fourth two minutes later.

BellKake said the team had learnt a lot and would put an emphasis on ensuring it started well in its final game.

It will play off for seventh and eighth tomorrow.

Meanwhile, the Southern Dogs will play in the men’s topfour semifinals against North Harbour at 2.30pm today.