Slattery, Hockeyroos survive shootout to reach World Cup semifinals

The Hockeyroos and WA striker Kathryn Slattery have survived a thrilling shootout to defeat Argentina in this morning’s quarterfinal and progress to the semifinals of the 2018 Women’s World Cup in London.

After progressed directly to the quarterfinals courtesy of finishing on top of Pool D following their 1-1 draw with New Zealand last Saturday, the Hockeyroos came up against Argentina for a place in the final four of the major tournament.

Neither side could break the deadlock in a tense 60 minutes of normal time with Slattery having Australia’s best chance in the 37th minute when her reverse stick shot forced a strong save from Argentina goalie Belen Succi.

Slattery, who hails from South Stirling, wasn’t used in the shootout as firstly the Hockeyroos keeper Rachael Lynch denied Argentina’s final penalty attempt, which would have eliminated Australia if successful.

Brooke Peris then stepped up to be the hero, converting the decisive penalty in sudden death to hand the Hockeyroos an epic 4-3 win.

The Hockeyroos will now play the winner of the Netherlands and England quarterfinal which will be played tomorrow morning WA time.

The quarterfinal result however ensures the Hockeyroos will play-off for a medal, either gold or bronze, with the medal matches to be played on Sunday.