Hockeyroos move one step closer to quarter-finals berth after defeating Argentina 1-0

THE Hockeyroos have moved a step closer to booking a quarter-final spot at the Rio Olympics with a 1-0 win over Argentina.

THE Hockeyroos have moved a step closer to booking a quarter-final spot at the Rio Olympics with a 1-0 win over Argentina.

Australia’s victory over the world No. 2 moves them to six points in Pool B and into third spot behind the US and Great Britain who are locked on nine points, while Argentina sit fourth on three points with one just game remaining before the finals.

The top four from each of the two pools progress to the quarters.

The Hockeyroos are one step closer to the quarter-finals. Photo: Photo/Hussein Malla)

Forward Emily Smith’s goal early in the third term proved the difference and what a strike it was for the world No. 3 Hockeyroos on Thursday night at the Olympic Hockey Stadium in Deodoro.

Smith showed lovely control and soft hands to drop the ball on the deck before swatting home a terrific shot.

Following an exciting first half, the sides went to the halftime break at 0-0 before Smith struck soon after.

Rio Day 9: Aussies at the 2016 Olympics

VIEW GALLERY

In a quality, end-to-end match, both sides had chances only to be denied by good goalkeeping.

Argentina were denied from a penalty stroke by Hockeyroos goalkeeper Rachael Lynch who flung her left leg out to a block a shot.

The win comes after Australia’s first of the tournament against India on Wednesday and they have one remaining pool match against Japan on Saturday.

####

Originally published as Hockeyroos move one step closer to quarter-finals berth after defeating Argentina 1-0