ENGLAND Women’s Over 60s hockey team, and local star Anne Rawlinson, had to settle for a second place and a silver medal at the FIH International Masters as they were beaten by New Zealand 1-0 in the final in Canberra, Australia.

While disappointed to lose the final goalkeeper Anne said: “New Zealand scored from a penalty corner with two minutes to go. It was a great strike from their captain who pinged into the bottom corner. I was unfortunate not to get on the pitch but the game was too close and you don't change goalie in that situation.”

“It was a good final match as both teams were in the circle on many occasions but New Zealand had more shots that our keeper had to save. We only managed to make their keeper make a couple of saves and we did not make the pressure count.”

“The woman on tour all were excited to represent their country and we were all honoured to be part of the ceremony at the War Memorial. It has been a great tournament and a fantastic experience and we are all looking forward to the Home Internationals in June”

Reflecting on her time at the Masters, Anne, who plays for Ben Rhydding, said; “It has been such an honour to represent your country halfway round the world. It brought a tear to many an eye when we heard the national anthems sung before the final.”

“It has been the hockey trip of a life time and at 61 it does not get much better. There was lots of great support from our other teams playing in the tournament and also the husbands of several of the players. It was great to see England flags all over the place.”