“The first semi-final of the 2014 Rabobank Women’s Hockey World Cup saw Australia take on the USA. The USA, ranked 10th in the world, was in their first World Cup semi-final for twenty years up against two time winners Australia.
The first half was a tense affair with few clear-cut chances until the 33rd minute when Kellie White put Australia 1-0 up with a shot that came off USA’s Lauren Crandall’s stick and settled in the back of the goal. USA keeper Jackie Kintzer kept her nation in the game with a fantastic save in the 45th minute, and three minutes later Kelsey Kolojejchick drew the USA level at 1-1 with a great solo effort. Five minutes later Australia re-took the lead from a penalty corner converted by Anna Flanagan.
The USA frantically tried to find an equaliser and with two minutes to play they got it through an effort by Kolojejchick. Australia contested the goal but didn’t have a video referral and the goal stood to force a shoot-out for a place in the final.
Both teams had their first shoot-out efforts saved before Australia went 1-0 ahead thanks to Kellie White. Kolojejchick scored the next effort for the USA to level at 1-1. Georgie Parker put Australia 2-1 up and then Aussie keeper Rachael Lynch saved Michelle Kasold’s effort. Jodie Kenny stepped up for the decisive shot and prevailed to send Australia to the World Cup final. Welcome to the FIH YouTube Channel where you can watch all the amazing skills, fearless keepers and incredible goals.
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