A 3-1 loss to Japan has not prevented the Hockeyroos from advancing to the Champions Trophy final after the Netherlands eliminated hosts China from title contention.
Australia's hopes of making the final of the last edition of the six-team tournament hinged on the Dutch after they were well beaten by Japan in the opening match of Saturday's three-game program.
Fortunately the competition favourites did not let the Hockeyroos down by preserving their unbeaten record with a 2-1 win over China, who would have made Sunday's decider with a draw.
The Hockeyroos endured an anxious wait in the stands after early goals to Japan's Yuri Nagai and Yukari Mano put the Japanese in control of their final round robin contest.
Minami Shimizu then added a third before Penny Squib marked her debut with a consolation goal six minutes from fulltime.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
The Hockeyroos did create a number of scoring opportunities but were unable to breach Japan's strong defence until it was too late.
Ominously for the Hockeyroos the Netherlands won their latest contest 3-0 on Tuesday.
