Kookaburras Stick It To Kiwis As Pakistan Fight Their Corner
Sydney Morning Herald
Monday July 29, 2002
Manchester: The Kookaburras have brushed aside New Zealand to firm as favourites for gold, despite an eye-catching start for the only team seemingly capable of beating them, Pakistan.
The Australians won 6-1 while Pakistan inspired by the incomparable Sohail Abbas cruelled England's dreams.
The softly spoken fullback, the world's most lethal exponent of the penalty corner, converted three corners from four attempts to give his side a 3-0 win.
``If there is anyone in England who thinks they can stop him, step into the box," English goalkeeper Simon Mason said after the loss, adding that if Australia could deny Abbas they remained the team to beat.
The Kiwis stole a shock lead in the 18th minute on Saturday after fullback Hayden Shaw slammed home a penalty.
But the Kookaburras hit back almost immediately and slotted another before half-time, going to the break at 2-1.
The heroics of the first half told on the Kiwis, who could do nothing as the Kookaburras blasted another four goals.
© 2002 Sydney Morning Herald