The Aussie Stingers failed to maintain their unbeaten streak at the Tokyo Olympics after suffering a 15-9 loss to Spain.
The Stingers fielded their strongest side against Spain, featuring experienced goalkeeper Lea Yanitsas.
Bronte Halligan opened up the scoring for Australia in the first quarter after sending the ball with speed directly at the keeper, who parried it into the net.
The two sides went goal for goal in the first quarter which ended 3-3.
There was a goal-fest to kick off the second quarter with three goals scored in the first 90 seconds, including one from 20-year-old hot-shot Abby Andrews.
A Rowie Webster double prevented an increasing Spain lead as Australia finished the second quarter only one goal down.
Spain’s hot form continued into the third and fourth quarter with three goals in rapid succession, preventing another potential Stingers comeback win.
Back-to-back goals by Judith Forca sealed Australia’s fate, with the Stingers losing the match 15-9.
Despite Aussie goalkeeper Lea Yanitsas making crucial saves, she couldn’t stop the rockets sent by Bea Ortiz and Maica Godoy Garcia, who scored four and three goals respectively.
Spain fielded a handful of left-handed players unlike most teams this tournament, also playing 16-year-old Elena Ruiz Barril.
Spain’s Roser Tarragó also spent the 2019 season in Australia with the Drummoyne Devils.
Source: foxsports.com.au
