The Tasmania boys suffered a heavy defeat against the host state Queensland on the opening day of the Australian U18 Indoor championships.  Playing in 35C temperature, Queensland capitalised on the Tasmanians’ turnovers and made the most of their penalty corner opportunities. 

The Tassie boys continued to work hard and a good pass from defence by Ross Sharpe found Adam Akam in the circle who earned a penalty stroke with strong play in the circle.  Ross Sharpe converted this opportunity.  Tassie entered half time 5-1 down. 

Whilst their positional play and cohesion improved during the second half, Queensland were able to build on their lead through slick passing and great counteracting.  A great intercept at half way followed by skilful play into the circle by NSW import Billy Crossland resulted in Ross Sharpe converting his second penalty stroke. 

A fantastic deflection goal late by Queensland rounded out a 13-2 defeat for the boys. 

The boys play ACT at 3pm today.
 

The Tasmanian girls played Queensland in their first round of the Australian U18 Championships suffering a defeat of 6-0. 

Tasmania played strongly in the initial stages of the first half but Queensland were able to capitalise on loose balls.  Tasmania’s strong defence in Lucy Murgatroyd and Bella Worner-Butcher staid off many of Queensland attacking moves within the first half, along with strong performances from Courtney Pearson and Maddy Murphy who consistently ran the ball forward. 

The Tasmanian players regrouped in the second half playing positional plays.  Strong runs from Courtney Pearson and Maddy Murphy resulted in a penalty corner – not converted, however the players persisted and skilful work by Ashlee Mayo resulted in another penalty corner. 

The girls play ACT at 12.50pm today.