GB Women's hockey team make great start in Olympics

They took the lead after 26 minutes through an excellent goal by Lily Owsley.

Ranked third in the world, Australia equalised through Georgina Morgan three minutes into the third quarter through a penalty corner.

Alex Danson scored Team GB’s winner with a brilliant reverse-direction strike.

Horsham’s Maddie Hinch played in goal and kept Austrlia at bay in the final stages as they searched for an equaliser.

The squad included East Grinstead Hockey Club trio Laura Unsworth, Sophie Bray and reserve keeper Kirsty Mackay.

Great Britain women’s captain Kate Richardson-Walsh said: “It was a good three points for us. It was a difficult game and it was not pretty at times, but we stayed disciplined throughout.

“Australia are a fantastic side. They have strength all over the field and they will do very well in this tournament, so to get a win against them is definitely a great confidence booster.”

GB goalscorer Lily Owsley said: “To say we have been waiting for this game for a long time is an understatement. We have been waiting for it for four years so it is great to get the ball rolling with a win.

“As far as Saturday nights go, making my Olympic debut and scoring probably tops a Saturday night as a 21-year-old, so I am over the moon.”

Great Britain are in action again tonight (Monday) at 10pm when they face India before taking on Argentina on Wednesday, kick-off 5.30pm.

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