Hockey: Australia and Argentina reach Champions Trophy final after thrilling semis
Sunday 7 December 2014 14:34, UK
Australia will face hosts Argentina in the Women’s Champions Trophy final after a dramatic penalty shootout win over New Zealand.
Captain Anita Punt scored an early penalty corner for New Zealand, who were attempting to reach the final for the first time, but Amelia Spence levelled in the third quarter, knocking in Brooke Peris’ pass.
Neither side could find a winner in normal time and New Zealand lost their nerve in the shootout, failing to hit the net with three attempts.
Australia captain Casey Eastham saw her shot saved, but Georgia Nanscawen, Karri McMahon and Emily Smith all scored to set up a meeting with Argentina.
Carla Rebecchi netted a last minute winner as the South Americans snatched a 2-1 victory over the Netherlands.
Lidewij Welten fired the Dutch ahead in the first quarter, but Argentina hit back in the second-half as Silvina D'Elia slotted in a penalty corner.
The match appeared to be heading to a shootout until Rebecci smashed in a loose ball after two reaction saves by Dutch goalkeeper Joyce Sombroek.
Argentina’s celebrations were briefly put on hold as officials checked for obstruction, but it was cleared and the home side booked a place in a seventh consecutive Trophy final.
