The Fiji hockey High Performance Unit women’s side managed their closest game yet with the touring Australian masters over 45s by leveling 1-all at the National Hockey Centre in Suva last night.

It was nil-all at halftime however, a deflection shot from former Fiji captain Lucretia Smith-Pickering had the hosts up late in the second spell.

Two minutes later though, the Aussies hit back from a short corner to deny Fiji HPU a win.

Senior Suva hockey rep Alison Southey says it was a good effort from the players.

“Considering the first two games we lost 3-nil. This one was a draw. We were up but in the last few minutes we were just tired so they caught up. It was a really good game, their experience is helping our local players learn so much more. It’s just a different way of playing, they are much fitter and we’re benefiting.”

Australian masters coach Lindal Taylor says their third match this week, was definitely a challenge.

“It was very close and very, very tough. The Fijian ladies have just improved immensely over the three games and its wonderful to see. It’s really great and they’re really putting it to our ladies and making them think to use their heads more than their legs.”

At 5pm today the Aussies will face a Fiji Under 18 outfit who were taking notes of last night’s game.

Although it isn’t 5-a-side, the experience from this encounter will help the U18s in preparation for the Youth Olympic Games in China in August.