The Hockeyroos have suffered a surprise loss on the eve of the Beijing Olympics, going down to Japan overnight in the first match of a four test series.
The loss is only the Hockeyroos second defeat at the hands of Japan from 30 matches, and comes after the Hockeyroos defeated Japan twice during the recent Champions Trophy in May.
The final score failed to reflect the closeness of the game, with the Hockeyroos recording several more circle penetrations and shots on goal throughout the match.
However the wasted opportunities from the Hockeyroos proved costly, allowing Japan to score two early first half goals.
Sarah Young gave the Hockeyroos some hope mid way through the first half as she converted a penalty corner in the 13th minute. Overall the Hockeyroos penalty corner conversion rate was disappointing, scoring only once from seven attempts.
The second half continued in the same fashion, with the Hockeyroos once again producing far more circle penetrations. However Japan managed to take advantage of the wasted opportunities, scoring twice more to set up a commanding lead.
A Casey Eastham goal in the 69th minute brought some respectability back to the scoreboard however the result was well beyond doubt in what was a disappointing match for the Hockeyroos.
Kobie McGurk, Madonna Blyth and Teneal Attard were consistent performers for the Hockeyroos, however coach Frank Murray said he was disappointed with the team's performance.
'It was a game full of wasted opportunities up forward, while our defense was also well below our best.' Said Murray.
Japan - Australia 4-2 (2-1)
Jap Ono 8m FG, Aus Young 13m PC, Jap Kozakura 20m FG, Jap Morimoto 41m FG, Jap Komori 59m FG, Aus Eastham 69m FG
Source: Hockey Australia
