Odisha Hockey Men’s World Cup: Netherlands shoots out defending champions Australia to enter final

Odisha Hockey Men’s World Cup: Netherlands shoots out defending champions Australia to enter final

Netherlands shot defending champion Australia out of gold medal match to set a summit clash with neighbor Belgium in the Odisha Hockey Men’s World Cup at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on Saturday. Earlier Belgium routed England 6-0 in the first semi final.

After playing 2-2 draw in the scheduled time, Australia lost 3-4 in the sudden death of penalty shootout.

The hero of the Dutch triumph was Seve van Ass, who not only scored both the goals for his team but also converted his penalty in the shootout. Also Read: Odisha Hockey Men's World Cup: Canada, S. Africa play 1-1 draw

Pirmin Blaak of Netherlands who made a couple of saves in the penalty shootout was adjudged man of the match. [caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="275"] Odisha Hockey Men’s World Cup: Netherlands shoots out defending champions Australia to enter final[/caption]

Australia had put up a gallant fight back after conceding two goals lead. Fighting to the finish, the Kangaroos got the equalizer just 26 seconds before the final whistle and that too through a goalmouth melee. After Eddie Ockenden’s attempt at the goal found its way past the Dutch goalkeeper Primin Blaak, it had touched the foot of Robbert Kampermann. After consultation with Video referee, goal was awarded to Australia to take the match to the penalty shootout. Also Read: Odisha Hockey Men’s World Cup : Netherlands, Belgium complete the quarter finals line up

Using the second semi final as an opportunity to avenge the humiliating defeat it suffered in the 2014 World Cup at the Hague, Netherlands started on a grand note. Making use of gaps and open hockey the Australians play, the Dutch were looking holes to punch in goals.

And Netherlands did avenge its home ground defeat. [caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Odisha Hockey Men’s World Cup: Netherlands shoots out defending champions Australia to enter final[/caption] Also Read: Odisha Hockey Men's World Cup: Three goals in final quarter gets Australia 3 points

The Dutch strategy worked today as in the ninth minute following an obstruction ball was passed on to Steve van Ass inside the striking circle. His quick reflexes and instant deflection surprised the experienced Australian goaltender Andrew Charter.

Steve van Ass became the darling of his team when he scored again. This time it came in the 20^th minute. He again latched on to a centre and dispatched the ball home.

Both teams had their fair share of penalty corners in the first half. Netherlands got three and Australia two but none could be put to any use. -PTC NEWS

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