Australia kicked off their title defence in style on Monday by thrashing Canada 6-1 in men's Olympic hockey with Des Abbott knocking in three goals. Fergus Kavanagh, Eddie Ockenden and Grant Schubert also slotted home in the pool B match as the Kookaburras displayed just why they are rated the world's best team.
New Zealand beat higher ranked South Korea 3-1 in pool A after strong Germany brushed aside China 4-1, also in pool A. Britain beat Pakistan in the Olympics for the first time since 1952, their confident 4-2 pool B display.
Two more first round matches are due later on Monday with Spain meeting Belgium and the Netherlands, silver medallists four years ago, taking on South Africa Australia have come into the Games as favourites after winning their record ninth Champions Trophy and dethroning Germany at the top of the rankings. "It felt nice to hit a few goals. I think probably the main thing is starting off well coming into a tournament and warm up," Ockenden told a news conference.
But Australia have injury fears with forward Jamie Dwyer, and experienced defender Bevan George suffered niggles and did not return to the field. Dwyer rolled his ankle while captain George hurt a rib and hip. Canada, who qualified after eight years, pulled one back through an opportunistic goal by Peter Short, but Australia's domination was complete.
"They are not the world number for one for nothing," Canada's coach Louis Mendonca said. "They make you pay for your mistakes." Hayden Shaw converted three penalty corners in New Zealand's surprise victory over South Korea.