Spain record consolation win

Spain 3 defeated Australia
Goals: ESP ÔÇô David Alegre FG 2m FG 41m, Pol Amat FG 8m; AUS Jamie Dwyer FG 28m FG

Spain won the final game of their five-Test series against Australia 3-1 in Hobart on Sunday.

However, the result had no effect on the series with the Kookaburras taking it out 2-1.

In front of another strong Hobart crowd the Spanish team got off to a flying start, piling on two goals in eight minutes, their control of the ball making the Kookaburras look sluggish.

David Allegre opened the scoring for Spain with a well worked penalty corner play in the first two minutes. Six minutes later Pol Amat made it two nil when he was left unmarked deep in the circle and had no troubles finding the back of the net.

With a two-nil scoreline the Spanish team then dictated play, controlling the ball through the midfield as the Kookaburras tried to create opportunities but struggled against a strong Spanish defence.

Jamie Dwyer was able to break through in the 28th minute when a Nathan Eglington intercept caught the Spanish defenders off guard, his pass finding Dwyer in the circle who was able to scrap a goal among a flurry of sticks and goalkeeping pads just before half time.

After the break Spain again came out attacking and a Kookaburras trapping error allowed David Allegre some space on his preferred side. His running goal his fifth for the series and Spains third for the match.

Down 3-1 the Kookaburras were unable to break through the Spanish' defence and create enough opportunities in front of goal. At times in the second half they came close, however, Spain's defence stood strong and they came away with the 3-1 win.

Australian coach Barry Dancer
"Today was a disappointing outcome after a reasonably productive series," he said.

"We had a poor start but improved in the first half but Spain played a very good game and a very smart game. Their defensive play leaving us open for counter attacks."

"The series has been very productive. We've been able to expose a good number of players over the five games and they've been reasonably consistent over the series."

"We have a reasonable idea on the team for the Commonwealth Games. We'll revisit that tomorrow morning and announce the team on Wednesday."