Hockey: Australia overwhelm Irish

THERE was no joy for the Irish in their game against Australia in the Waterford Crystal Women's World Cup yesterday as they went down 4-0, writes Bill Colwill from Dublin. The pre-tournament favourites now move into joint second place with Korea, who they play in their last remaining pool game tomorrow.

Argentina took over the Pool A leadership from Korea when they beat them 1-0 with a penalty corner goal from Sofia Mackenzie in the 55th minute. Spain, who beat Russia 3-1, are equal on points with Australia and Korea but have inferior goal difference.

Ireland defended superbly with Sandra O'Gorman making a string of brave saves before Sally Carbon, diving in behind the defence to touch home a long free hit from Julliet Haslam, opened the Australians' account after 26 minutes.

Earlier, a lob from Judith Chapman at Ireland's first penalty corner nearly crept under the bar but it was not to be their day. A second Australian goal from Kate Starre five minutes into the second half silenced the large home crowd and left the Australians in command with further goals coming from Michelle Andrews and Alyson Annan.