Kookaburras draw with Spain
25/06/2008 6:43 PM
The Kookaburras were unable to secure their second victory at the 2008 World Hockey Champions Trophy after conceding a late equalising goal against Spain in Rotterdam, Netherlands.
In a highly defensive battle, neither team was able to break the deadlock in the first half, as both goalkeepers made a series of excellent saves.
Australia broke the goal drought in the 54th minute when great play from Jamie Dwyer set up team-mate Grant Schubert for the opening goal.
Spain threw everything at the Aussies in search of an equaliser, and got their just reward with a goal in the 64th minute.
Kookaburra goalkeeper Stephen Lambert will be disappointed in conceding the late goal, after his stellar performance throughout the majority of the match.
Coach Barry Dancer said while he was pleased with the team's defensive efforts, more work needs to be done in the attacking half.
"We produced a stronger defensive performance. We developed some flow but were not able to generate too many good goal scoring opportunities. Our ability in the front third will be an area to address for our next match," said Dancer.
The result leaves them fourth on the Champions Trophy points table with one victory, one draw and one defeat.