Defending champions Australia and New Zealand [Images] overcame stiff resistance from Malaysia and Italy [Images] respectively to post identical 2-1 victories in the Indira Gandhi [Images] International Gold Cup women's hockey tournament at the National stadium in Delhi on Monday.

After two rounds in the tournament, India are atop the table with six points. Australia and New Zealand follow with four points each after a win and a draw.

The Aussies got off to a rousing start with skipper Nikki Hudson scoring in the second minute from their first move into the Malaysian circle. They continued to dominate but goalkeeper Enranawati Mahmud came up with brilliant saves to thwart them.

Five minutes from the breather Australia increased the tally when Arnold Nicloe scored from a penalty-corner.

That was the only one they scored off the eight they forced in the first half.

The second half too was a tale of missed chances as Australia did everything but score.

Siti Noor Ruhani reduced the margin for Malaysia, scoring off a penalty-stroke in injury time.

Earlier, New Zealand beat Italy 2-1.

Captain Suzie Muirhead put New Zealand ahead while Victoria Corso restored parity for the Italians. The Kiwis scored the match-winner four minutes from time through Honor Dillon.

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