Australia edge closer to semi-finals

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Australia took a step closer to the semi-finals with a battling 1-0 victory over South Africa in Pool B.

Australia dominated the first half, winning four penalty corners, but the only goal of the game came from open play in the seventh minute when Jade Close struck, converting Casey Eastham's pass.
After the break the tide turned slightly as South Africa, still without a point, picked up the tempo and although they had a few chances to score - especially in the last 10 minutes when they forced three penalty corners - they found goalkeeper Toni Cronk in good form.
Netherlands became the first team to book their place in the semi-finals with an unconvincing 3 - 2 victory over South Korea in Pool A.  
The Dutch made it four successive wins but they have still yet to impress as having got themselves into a commanding position early in the second half they allowed the Asian side back into the game. 
Maartje Paumen, Ellen Hoog and Carlien van den Heuvel scored for the Dutch while Cheon Seul Ki scored the two goals for the Koreans.
Pool A's bottom-of-the-table clash ended all-square as Japan fought back to earn a draw against Belgium.
After being denied by a couple of goalline clearances the Europeans took the lead a minute before half-time when captain Charlotte de Vos was brought down by Sakiyo Asano as she tried to round the goalkeeper.