Hockeyroos hanging on

The Australian women’s hockey team, the Hockeyroos, are in doubt of moving through the group stage at the 2011 FIH Champions Trophy in Amsterdam are two losses in their opening two matches.

The Hockeyroos’ first loss was a 0-3 defeat by hosts the Netherlands, with the match actually much closer than the final scoreline. NSWIS athlete and Hockeyroos goalkeeper Toni Cronk made a number of crucial saves for Australia, while at the other end of the pitch the team created chances but were unable to finish.

Australia’s second loss came to New Zealand, the match finishing 2-3 and marking the first time New Zealand has defeated Australia at the Champions Trophy. The Kiwis were up 0-3 after 44 minutes before NSWIS athletes Jade Close and Casey Eastham pegged back goals for the Hockeyroos, however it was not enough.

The Hockeyroos will next play Germany on Tuesday night with a slim chance to compete in the upcoming medal rounds.

The NSWIS athletes in the team are: Cronk, Close, Eastham, Emily Hurtz, Kate Jenner, Jacklyn McRae, Megan Rivers, Jade Warrender and Kellie White.