Kookaburras Loom As Genuine Cup Hope
Sun Herald
Sunday March 3, 2002
AUSTRALIA almost certainly booked a berth in the World Cup semi-finals with a 5-0 thrashing of Japan last night.
The Kookaburras have now scored 20 goals and conceded only one to lowly Poland and remain unbeaten after five matches.
They meet the speedy South Koreans tomorrow and the beleaguered Indians on Tuesday. India's woes increased yesterday when coach Cedric D'Souza was fired by the Indian Hockey Federation after the proud hockey nation's worst showing at a World Cup.
The Kookaburras went into the match against Japan with wins against Malaysia, England, Poland and Cuba but with the words of coach Barry Dancer ringing in their ears.
Dancer had warned: ``I am concerned about this match because Japan is an improved side. If they take their opportunities they can beat us."
Not so. The Kookaburras employed an attacking game, and led 2-0 at half-time.
Willowy striker Craig Victory bagged his second consecutive double, defender Matthew Wells scored a double and Jeremy Hiskins also converted.
While Australia's path has been smooth, they are in the easier of the two pools, and should advance with South Korea.
Cup holders the Netherlands, the impressive Germany, Spain and Pakistan are fighting for the two semi-final berths in the other pool.
© 2002 Sun Herald