Blake Govers hit the post in the final seconds, as the Kookaburras moved into the World League quarter-finals without a win, after another stalemate, this time against England.
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Australia had to settle for a 2-all draw on Monday night, after they also shared the points with India and Germany.
It means the Kookaburras finished third in their pool and will meet the second placed team in the other group –Spain, Argentina, Netherlands or Belgium – determined after Tuesday night’s results. Govers delivered a penetrating drag flick with time ticking away, which rattled the post.Daniel Beale then had a shot from the rebound, but it was also denied by the goal’s frame in the thrilling final moments.
Earlier, Govers earned a penalty corner through a video referral, then converted it with a drag flick, which put Australia ahead 2-1 early in the second half.
But, in veteran Barry Middleton’s 400th international game, Phil Roper equalised for England in the 54th minute.
“We were going for a win today,” Kookaburras star Matthew Swann said, who was named man of the match.
“We’ve had three games and three draws.
“This game was very important. It was also very important for the English team with Barry Middleton with his 400th Test match. That’s incredible.
“Congratulations to him, we’re just happy we put on another good show.”
The quarter-finals are played on Wednesday and Thursday nights, with the final and bronze medal games on Sunday.
