The Kookaburras have opened their Champions Trophy campaign with a 3-3 draw against Belgium and a 2-1 victory over Pakistan.
The opening match against Belgium was an evenly fought affair with both teams displaying free-flowing hockey. Belgium drew first blood at the nine-minute mark of the match, with the Kookaburras finding the back of the net with thanks to Mitton (20’), Sharp (21’) and Hayward (50’).
A slow start from the Kookaburras in game two against a dominant Pakistan had the team on edge during the first quarter. Pakistan scored in the ninth minute, with Trent Mitton of the Kookaburras returning fire soon thereafter to level the scores in the twelfth minute of play.
The Kookaburras held Pakistan scoreless for the remainder of the match, whilst the combination of a Aaron Kleinschmidt toma-hawk and a deflection from Blake Govers meant Australia took a 2-1 lead in the 55th minute.
The Kookaburras will next face India on Wednesday evening.
