Thaindian News

New Delhi, March 13 (IANS) Specialist Luke Doerner fired in the winner from a penalty corner as Australia won their first Hockey World Cup in 24 years with a 2-1 victory over defending champions Germany in the final at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium here Saturday.
The Aussies, who had ended runners up to Germany in the previous two finals, proved third time lucky to lift the coveted trophy after 1986. Australia had then beaten hosts England 2-1 in the final at Willesden (London).

Australia forged ahead in the sixth minute as Ockenden netted from a goalmouth melee, giving no chance to rival goalkeeper Tim Jessulat.

Germany pressed hard post the breather and drew level from a penalty corner as Martin Haner sold a dummy and passed on to Moritz Fruste, who flicked into the net before a near-capacity turnout.

Doerner then struck the winner by rocketing in a power-packed penalty corner in the 59th minute.

Doerner thus finished with eight goals to emerge as the tournament’s top scorer.