Hockeyroos make shock Olympic Games exit despite two goals from Slattery

A gutted Kathryn Slattery has spoken of the Hockeyroos’ shock quarterfinal exit at the Olympic Games in Rio, after New Zealand bundled them out of medal contention with a 4-2 win on Monday.

The South Stirling-bred Slattery was the sole WA representative in the Australian women’s national team that had high hopes of securing their first Olympic medal since winning gold in Sydney back in 2000.

Recovering from a slow start in their pool matches, the Hockeyroos finished third in the standings after three straight wins, but they were unable to match their Tran-Tasman rivals in the sudden death quarterfinal.

The Hockeyroos dominated the first quarter as they pressed hard for an opening goal, only for the Black Sticks to score with their first genuine chance on goal when Anita McLaren’s powerful drag flick converted a penalty corner.

The Black Sticks doubled their advantage in the second quarter through Kelsey Smith, who converted one of their numerous penalty corners.

Trailing 2-0, the Hockeyroos desperately needed a goal to get themselves back into the game and Slattery delivered, with the 23-year-old forward pouncing on a ball from a saved penalty corner to slot home Australia’s first goal in the 33rd minute.

However, the Black Sticks hit back, scoring twice in the space of five minutes nearing three-quarter time to all but end the Hockeyroos’ hopes.

Slattery, who had looked dangerous in the attacking circle throughout the match, added a consolation goal in the final 90 seconds of the game as she slotted home a smart field goal on the far post.

Her efforts, however, were not enough as the Hockeyroos’ medal hopes ended with a disappointing quarterfinal exit. “It was heartwrenching to get knocked out in such a way,” Slattery said.

“We always knew quarters are brutal and it’s difficult to comprehend it’s real.

“It's obviously disappointing to feel like we didn’t get the opportunity to show the world what we are truly capable of and shows how important it is to execute the game plan at crucial times.

“As much as it is disappointing, it is also important to recognise the talent among the group and the potential for the future.”

The rising WA star, finished as her side’s leading goal scorer with an impressive four goals in six games.

“The experience was incredible and something I will remember for the rest of my life,” she said.

“The perspective of an athlete is like no other and I’ve been so proud to represent my country.

“I’m stoked to have been leading goal scorer and I look at the opportunities I had and see even more potential in that area.

“Overall it has been a phenomenal experience and has given me a lot of determination leading forward to always be better.”