Australia through to semis on goal difference

Kuala Lumpur, June 21 (UNI) Hosts Malaysia rallied to score in dying moments to hold Olympic Champions Australia to a 2-2 draw but the latter managed to make it to the semi-finals of the Sultan Azlan Shah Hockey Tournament here today.

Australia needed a victory by four goals to top Pool B but now have to settle for second place. Both Australia and South Korea have the same number of four points but the defending champions made it to the last four on a better goal difference.

After waiting for four hours due to a rain-delayed start, both teams finally took to the pitch and didn't disappoint the few hundred spectators who had waited patiently to see Malaysia take on the Olympic Champions.

Malaysia shot into the lead when Kuhan's penalty corner flick was deflected in by Ismail Abu in the 15th minute.

Australia equalised in the 27th minute when a Troy Elder penalty corner hit went straight into the body of defender Engku Malik and the umpire pointed for a penalty stroke. Aussie skipper Brent Livermore converted without a fuss.

At the break, both the teams were locked 1-1.

Australia went ahead after resumption when Grant Schubert lurking inside the striking circle shot past the Malaysian goalkeeper to put his team into the lead.

Malaysia fought back and would have equalised when Chua Boon Huat's penalty corner shot was cleared on the line by Mark Knowles.

Just when it seemed that the Aussies would walk off with a 2-1 win, a Malaysian attack through the middle by Sukri Abdul Mutalib earned the hosts a penalty stroke. Megat effortlessly converted the stroke for a memorable draw with Australia.

UNI XC DH DB2011