HOCKEY: While the Kookaburras recorded a comfortable 6-0 win over South Africa during their first game, they can be sure to expect a much tougher contest when they face 2008 Beijing silver medallists Spain today at Riverbank Arena.

With three vital points up for grabs, Spain will have further motivation after suffering a surprise 1-1 draw against Pakistan in day one of competition.

There is a strong recent rivalry between the two teams, with Spain the team responsible for knocking Australia out of the semi final at the 2008 Beijing Olympics after coming back from 2-0 to win 3-2.

Kookaburras coach Ric Charlesworth said he expects Spain to be even more hungry after their draw with Pakistan, making Spain an even more dangerous opponent than previously expected.

“We know that they are a very dangerous team. We played them in the final of the Champions Trophy last year where there was only one corner for the match. They have 10 silver medallists in their team from Beijing. They are a good team and we had better be at our best if we want to get the result,” said Charlesworth. 

Shaun Anderson in London
Olympics.com.au