Clash of Titans: Australia rally to pip Netherlands 3-1 in HWL warm-up tie

File Photo: Jamie Dwyer of Australia. (Getty Images)

In a clash of the titans, world number two Australia came from behind to prevail over world number three Netherlands 3-1 in the first of two warm-up games for the upcoming FIH Hockey World League semi-finals beginning in Rotterdam from June 13.

The Netherlands gave the home crowd plenty to cheer about as they scored the opener in the fourth minute courtesy an own goal let in by Australia.

The Dutch side held on to the lead till the half-time break. The Kookaburras, led by Mark Knowles, showed immense resolve and restored parity in the 38^th minute through Russell Ford.

Celebrated striker Jamie Dwyer, playing in his 295^th international, gave Australia the lead in the 45^th minute.

The gold-and-green brigade scored the insurance goal through their drag-flick expert Chris Ciriello, who converted a set-piece in the 57^th minute.

Both teams face each other in the second and final warm-up on Friday. Australia is also slated to play Belgium in another warm-up tie on Sunday.

The Rotterdam semi-final will feature Australia alongside Belgium, Spain and France in Pool ‘A’. Pool ‘B’ will feature hosts Netherlands, India, New Zealand and Ireland.

The second FIH Hockey World League (HWL) Round 2 tournament semi-final to be held at Johor Bahru will feature Olympic champions Germany, Asian giants South Korea, Argentina and Japan in Pool ‘A’.

Pool ‘B’ of the Johor Bahru event would comprise of England, South Africa, Pakistan and hosts Malaysia.

Meanwhile, the first women’s semi-final at Rotterdam would see Pool ‘A’ featuring hosts Netherlands, South Korea, Japan and Chile. Pool ‘B’ would feature India, Germany, New Zealand and Belgium.

The second semi-final at London would feature world champions Argentina, China, US and Italy in Pool ‘A’. Pool ‘B’ comprises of hosts England, Australia, Spain and South Africa.

Earlier, in another warm-up match, eight ranked Belgium piped fourth ranked fourth ranked England 5-0 in the third Test to sweep the three Test series.

Tom Boon scored twice, while Arthur Van Doren and Jerome Dekeyser fired once with an own goal by England.

In the second Test match, Belgium outplayed England 4-1. Belgium had won the first Test 5-3.