Scorchers come from behind against the Van Demons
OAMPS Queensland Scorchers 3 Tasmanian Van Demons 2
Goals – TAS Emily Wilson 2m PC, QLD Madonna Blyth 40m FG/ 59m FG, TAS Sofie McLeod 46m PC
The Tasmanian Van Demons have come agonisingly close to pulling off an upset against the highly rated OAMPS Queensland Scorchers, going down 3-2 despite leading twice throughout the match at the Australian Hockey League in Darwin tonight.
Madonna Blyth was the star of the game, scoring two of Queensland’s three goals.
The win was cruel for the Scorchers, who will next meet the NSW Arrows on Friday, a game they will need to win in order to advance to the AHL Final on Saturday.
The Van Demons caught the Scorchers off guard early, drawing a penalty corner and converting from the very first play of the game at the two minute mark to take a surprise lead.
Queensland looked for a quick response and seemingly had it when Jodie Schulz delivered a powerful flick, however the ball hit the top of the crossbar and the score remained 1-0.
Despite having three penalty corners within the first eight minutes Queensland couldn’t find the back of the net, and Tasmania grew in confidence as the game progressed.
Queensland continued to attack throughout the half, but the Tasmanian defence, particularly goalkeeper Jessica Tremayne, was up to the challenge and ensured the Tassie scoresheet remain blank leading into half time.
Queensland made the best possible start after half time, with Hockeyroos captain Madonna Blyth giving them a much needed goal at the 40 minute mark to level the game.
Much to Tasmania’s credit they didnt allow Queensland to run away with the game, and regained the lead only minutes later thanks to another penalty corner goal.
Determined to progress further in the tournament, Queensland continued their constant attack, generating several shots on goal. Eventually their skill proved too good, scoring goals in the 50th and 59th minutes to gain the lead for the first time in the match of which they were able to maintain until full time.
