Goalkeepers excel for Australia in loss to Germany

Australia's Sally Potocki jumps above four German defenders to aim a shot at goal

Australia faced Germany today in the second round, group B clash in Kumamoto. Rosa Boyd promised “the fight will continue and we have small goals set for the team which I’m sure we can achieve.”

The match started with both teams strong in defence, but Germany broke the ice first, three minutes into the game, then continued to build momentum with four more in succession.

Rosa Boyd answered for Australia with two quick goals at the eleven minute mark. Though, Germany continued scoring in clumps, pressing the Aussies at every attempt.

At the break, Australia trailed 4:16.

The second half saw Germany start with five again, before Madeleine McAfee broke through to score for Australia.  In the end, Germany proved too strong for Australia winning 34:8 (16:4 at the break).

Goalkeeper Manon Vernay had a day to remember, stopping an incredible 7 shots, five of which came from point-blank range. Vernay was backed up by Jemima Harbort with a further 3 stops to bring the total tally to 10.

Scorers for Australia: Sally Potocki 3, Madeleine McAfee 2, Rosa Boyd 2, Laura Player 1.  Goalkeepers: Manon Vernay 7 saves, Jemima Harbort 3.

The Aussies have a rest day tomorrow, then return on Tuesday to face defending World Champions France.