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Kookaburras bash Malaysia for second win

3 minute read

Australia have continued hot form in their return to international hockey action, smashing Malaysia 7-0 in Perth on Sunday evening.

The Australian men's hockey team have cruised to a second straight win against Malaysia in the nations' four-match series in Perth.

The Kookaburras struck four times in the first half to race away from their world No.11 opponents, the 7-0 win meaning they've accrued a 10-0 scoreline in the two games so far.

They were ahead in four minutes through Nathan Ephramus' clever finish, while Jack Welch capitalised on his side's industrious work and made it two soon after from close range.

Josh Simmonds made it three from a penalty corner and Welch doubled up a minute later with another classy touch from goalmouth action.

Blake Govers notched two of his own in the third and fourth quarters, taking his tally to 99 international goals, while Jacob Anderson scored in the final minute to complete the 7-0 drubbing.

The Kookaburras had made three changes to their side from Saturday's clash, with Josh Betlz, Simmonds and debutant goalkeeper Ben Rennie joining the side.

Rennie was able to mark his debut with a clean sheet, producing some classy saves deputising for Johan Durst.

Welch said the side's young talents had looked the goods as the team heads towards more strenuous challenges later.

"It was good to get back out there and of course good to get on the score sheet," he said.

"We learnt a lot from the first game yesterday in the way they defended and tackled, and we had a better second half today which was positive.

"The new young guys have brought a lot of energy and we have been training hard together.

"We're building some good connections so it's good to take what we're doing at training and bring it into a game."

It continued a successful return to international action for Australia, playing their first fixtures since claiming silver at the Olympics last August.

The series was set for five matches before Thursday night's clash was cancelled after Malaysia's arrival to Perth was delayed.

Australia won't play again at home before July's Commonwealth Games, which will be held in Birmingham.

The series continues on Tuesday before wrapping with game four on Thursday.

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