The Hockeyroos have gained confidence ahead of the Samsung Hockey Champions Trophy - Women 2009 tournament next week in Sydney, defeating Germany 2-0 at the Perth Hockey Stadium.
The victory was a fitting tribute to veteran Emily Halliday, who announced her retirement to the crowd at the conclusion of the match.
The Perth crowd were treated to the emergence of a new look Hockeyroos squad, with six players representing Australia for the first time on home soil, including WA native Fiona Boyce who made her Hockeyroos debut.
Despite being relatively inexperienced compared to their German opponents, it was the Hockeyroos who performed the better throughout the first half. New squad members Sarah O'Connor and Alison Bruce were particularly impressive, driving the Hockeyroo forward movements via the midfield.
Although Germany were awarded the first penalty corner of the match, it was Australia who struck first, with veteran defender Nicole Arrold beating the goalkeeper from a penalty corner at the 12 minute mark.
The Hockeyroos continued their attacking style throughout the first half, however were unable to increase their lead.
Eventually the Germans gained their composure and threatened the Australian goal on several occasions. However much to the credit of the Hockeyroos defense, Australia held firm and withstood the German attack, eventually regaining the momentum just prior to half time.
This trend continued in the second half, when the youngest player on the pitch, 17 year old Georgia Nanscawen added to her growing reputation to put the Hockeyroos further in front at the 55 minute mark.
With this the Hockeyroos were able to control the remainder of the match, showing some good signs ahead of facing Germany again on Monday 6 July at the Perth Hockey Stadium
Australia-Germany 2-0 (1-0)
Goals Australia: Arrold 12m PC, Nanscawen 55m FG
Source: Hockey Australia
