Kookaburras edge Ireland ahead of Belgium rematch
The Kookaburras have logged an unconvincing 2-1 defeat of Ireland as their clunky Olympic campaign continued in Paris.
Corey Weyer – dropped one year, Olympic goal-scorer the next – gave Australia the desired start when his fast flick in traffic rocketed over the shoulder of hulking Irish goalkeeper David Harte in the seventh minute.
But it was a grind beyond that.
Ireland equalised through a Lee Cole drag flick in the 25th minute before a Blake Govers penalty stroke in the final seconds of the half proved the difference on Monday.
Govers’ effort slammed into the backboard after teammate Jeremy Hayward’s flick from the penalty corner had hit an Irish defender’s foot on the goal-line.
Victory followed a 1-0 defeat of Argentina to begin their campaign, the Tokyo silver medallists yet to find their groove ahead of a rematch with defending champions Belgium on Tuesday night (0345 Wednesday AEST).
Australia had chances to extend their lead, Harte making saves on close-range shots from Eddie Ockenden and Nathan Ephraums, who remains in the side as an injury replacement for Jake Whetton.
Tom Wickham then had his goal reversed on review, the Australian first to a loose ball and neatly tapping it home only to be penalised for a slight stick-check.
Ephraums then had another great look at goal with the last play of the game but his mistimed shot bounced over Harte and wide of goal.
Ireland, in just their third Olympic campaign but boasting two recent wins against Belgium, had their moments and were pressing in the final minute for an equaliser that never came.
The Kookaburras will also play New Zealand and India later this week to complete the pool stage.
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