HOCKEY: The Hockeyroos have had a taste of what it will take to beat the best in London, going down 4-0 to the Netherlands today in a practice match.

After defeating Great Britain 2-0 on Friday, they entered the match looking to test themselves against the world number 1 team and defending Olympic champions.

Unfortunately they didn’t get off to a great start, conceding a goal within the first 8 minutes.

The Netherlands continued to press and when Kitty van Male scored her second goal ten minutes later, it looked to be a daunting task for the Hockeyroos.

With the match being played in three 20 minute periods, the Hockeyroos started the second period in much better form and were given their best chance to score when Emily Smith found Madonna Blyth inside the circle, however the shot went just wide of the goal.

They were given another opportunity when they were awarded a penalty corner, however Anna Flanagan’s speedy shot again sailed left of the goal.

As the match progressed the Netherlands continued to demonstrated exactly why they are the world’s best team, scoring two late goals to stamp their authority on the match.

After a hectic training schedule, the Hockeyroos will now leave the village for a few days to relax before returning on Wednesday and taking on Korea in their final practice match.

Shaun Anderson in London
Olympics.com.au