The Hockeyroos have started the 2018 Champions Trophy successfully with a dogged 2-1 win over reigning champions Argentina in Changzhou, China, on Saturday.
Rosie Malone scored twice in a three-minute burst late in the first quarter for Australia, who had to withstand a barrage of second half pressure to hang on for the points.
Malone struck in the 12th minute when striking Maddy Fitzpatrick's pass into the net, before producing some individual magic to score her second soon after.
Maria Granatto pulled a goal back in the 33rd minute for Las Leonas, but Hockeyroos keeper Ash Wells and the Australian defence were resolute as Argentina sought an equaliser.
Wells made her final save in the dying seconds to deny Argentina, who made twice as many shots on goal (8-4) and 18 circle entries to seven.
The world No.3's victory was a welcome launching pad for Sunday's clash with Olympic champions Great Britain, who drew 2-2 with China in the tournament's opening match.
Hockeyroos coach Paul Gaudoin was rapt after fielding a side including debutants Greta Hayes, Rebecca Greiner and Penny Squibb.
"I'm extremely happy with the win. I don't think we played that well in the second half but it was pleasing to score a few field goals in the first half," he said.
"We showed some grit. We just need to be smarter when we're 1-0 or 2-0 up."
After weathering early pressure, the Hockeyroos who took the lead when Fitzpatrick cut the ball back from the baseline for Malone to poke home.
Malone weaved along the baseline before scuffing a shot past Argentina keeper Belen Succi.
The goal was officially awarded to Malone, although newcomer Greiner may have got the final touch on the line.
Argentina went close to drawing level in the 43rd minute when skipper Delfina Merino hit the post while Martina Cavallero struck the side netting six minutes later.
Jodie Kenny almost restored Australia's two-goal advantage from a 52nd minute short corner, but defender Agustina Habif produced a stunning save on the line with her stick.
Australia 2 (Rosie Malone 12, 15) Argentina 1 (Maria Granatto 33)
