Australia Tops USA in Third Game of Paris 2024

PARIS, France – The No. 13 U.S. Olympic Women’s Field Hockey Team took on No. 5 Australia in their third game of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at the Yves-du-Manoir Stadium in Paris, France. Although presented with opportunities, USA couldn’t break through the Hockeyroo’s defense as they fell 0-3.

Two minutes into the match, Australia took the lead after a quick free hit found Renee Taylor wide open at the top of the circle, who fired it into the bottom corner. USA settled into a better defensive structure but struggled to produce any attack in the opening frame.

The United Eagles turned it around in the second quarter, holding control and generating more attack. Their first circle entry came early, starting in the backfield with a solid defensive stop by Kelee Lepage (Honey Brook, Pa.) on an Australia penalty corner. This led to Leah Crouse (Virginia Beach, Va.) sending the ball to Megan Valzonis (San Diego, Calif.) down the left sideline. Valzonis entered the circle and dodged one defender but was stopped by goalkeeper Jocelyn Bartram. The final 4 minutes were action-packed, with USA earning their first set piece, but to no avail. Down the other way, goalkeeper Kelsey Bing (Houston, Texas) made back-to-back saves before seeing the third Australia attempt sail over the goal. With a minute to go, the Hockeyroos added to their lead when Alice Arnott swept it high into the net.

Just 30 seconds into the third quarter Bing was tested again, saving a low backhand. Moments later Bing fended off an Australia penalty corner, allowing USA to push forward. Following a green card to Australia’s Mariah Williams, Maddie Zimmer (Hershey, Pa.) broke through and weaved between five defenders to earn the United Eagles a set piece. On the chance, Ashley Hoffman’s (Mohnton, Pa.) shot was deflected wide by the Hockeyroos post player. USA remained on the front foot and earned back-to-back penalty corner chances but found no result.

Down 2-0, USA ramped up their attack in the final quarter. Although USA displayed better possession and sustained pressure, Australia tallied another in the 53rd minute when Maddison Brooks finished a counter down the right side. The United Eagles closed the match in their attacking end, earning two penalty corners in the final 40 seconds, but couldn’t break through Australia’s defense as they fell 0-3.

USA is back in action tomorrow, August 1 at 11:00 a.m. ET when they take on No. 8 Great Britian in their fourth pool game. Fans can watch it live on USA Network or stream it on Peacock.

For more information regarding Paris 2024, visit the event page.

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