The Burras have claimed third place in the Sultan of Johor Cup after a comfortable 6-1 win over Japan at the Taman Daya Hockey Stadium on Saturday night as VIS’ Damon Steffens claims the tournament’s top scorer.
It was revenge for the defending champions Australia, as they had lost their opening match to the Japanese 2-1 which ultimately cost them a place in the final.
The match proved to be lopsided with the Australians controlling play from the start.
ACT pair Niranjan Gupte and Ben Staines scored a brace for the Australians in the match. Gupte’s goals came in the fifth and 38th minute while Staines was on target in the ninth and 34th minutes.
VIS’ Damon Steffens added on his ninth goal for the tournament in the 17th minute, the most of any player from all six countries.
Australian coach Chris O’Reilly said it was a well-deserved finish with the bronze medal.
“We’re a little disappointed not being in the final,” he said.
“But pleased to beat Japan in the second meeting and we had a good game which saw some good goals.
“I am happy with what we were able to do here and I am sure the players would have learned a lot form the outings.”
Great Britain took out the championship defeating India 3-2 in the Final.
VIS Athletes: Nathan Ephraums, Daniel McBride, Damon Steffens
