The Kookaburras have hit timely form on the eve of the WorldHockey Champions Trophy, recording an emphatic victory against Belgium.
The match served as a massive confidence boost and great preparation for the Australian team who will take on Belgium again on Tuesday 17 June. They will then travel to the Netherlands to compete in the Champions Trophy against the worlds best countries in Argentina, Spain, Germany, Korea and the Netherlands in what will be the last major international tournament prior to the Beijing Olympics.
Two early penalty corner goals to Luke Doerner set up an early lead for the Kookaburras which they never surrendered.
Although they dominated their opposition with circle penetrations in the first half, the Kookaburras took it to another level after half time and recorded nine shots on goal to one, resulting in four second half goals to Travis Brooks, Des Abbott, Grant Schubert and Jamie Dwyer.
Kookaburras coach Barry Dancer said he was extremely pleased with the victory, but will still look to make some improvement prior to their next match against Belgium.
'This was just the start we needed. The players' mentality in the second half was particularly pleasing and we were able to maintain a strong intensity. There are a number of positives to take forward as well as the need to focus on some areas of improvement for the second match against Belgium on Tuesday.' Said Dancer.
Australia - Belgium 6-0
Goals - Doerner 4m PC/ 16m PC, Brooks 38m FG, Abbott 48m FG, Schubert 59m FG, Dwyer 70m FG
Source: Hockey Australia
