2nd Women’s Hockey World League: Argentina, Australia, China, England reach semifinals
Current World Champions Argentina were given a run for their money by 11th ranked South Africa before the former prevailed 3-1 to sneak into the semifinals of the second women’s Hockey World League Round 3 event in London.
The world number two were denied from scoring in the first quarter as the Las Leonas opened the account in the 20th minute through Silvina D’Elia, who whipped home a drag-flick.
South Africa came out firing in the second stanza and evened the contest two minutes in the half when Pietie Coetzee rattled the Argentinean cage.
Silvina D’Elia once gave the South Americans the lead in the 43rd minute.
The dying moments were tensely fought with both teams trying desperate measures.
Argentina heaved a sigh of relief when Rosario Luchetti nipped out the insurance goal with two minutes remaining on the clock.
Argentina now face hosts and 4th ranked England in the semifinal.
England put it across 17th ranked Italy 3-2.
Goliath gave the home side an early lead before Macarena Ronsisvilla soon restored parity for Italy.
England struck two telling blows midway through the first half with Danson and Hannah Macleod striking two goals in quick succession to knock the stuffing out of the Italians as they led 3-1 at half-time.
Augustina di Bernardo converted a penalty stroke in the 56th minute to keep Italy in the contest, but England hung on for a nifty win.
Australia registered an emphatic 4-1 win over USA.
The 6th ranked Hockeyroos struck all the four goals in the first half.
Emily Smith gave Australia the lead before Rachael Dawson levelled things for 10th ranked USA.
Kellie White helped Aussies regain the lead Karri McMahon and Jodie Schulz came up with penalty corner flicks to pave the way for a facile win.
Australia will now play 7th ranked China, who eased past Spain 3-0 after a goalless first half.
Meiyu Liang gave China the lead.
Mengyu Wang extended the lead in the 57th minute before Hongxia Li fired home the third goal.