World's best too strong for gutsy Hockeyroos

The Hockeyroos have been beaten by the Netherlands in their second match of the FIH Hockey World Cup, going down 4-2 despite an battling performance against the reigning champions.

Australia are nevertheless well placed to qualify for the second round with the group's other result going their way.

The Aussies took Monday's (Tuesday AEST) game to their hosts from the opening whistle in the Amsterdam suburb of Amstelveen, producing a strong first quarter and putting the world No.1 team under sustained pressure.

The Hockeyroos earned a startling eight penalty corners in the opening term, including seven in succession, but were unable to find the breakthrough.

Australia paid for their profligacy as the Dutch showed them how it is done, scoring with their first penalty corner through Yibbi Jansen in the 13th minute.

Australia referred Joosje Burg's goal for a potential back stick in the build-up, with replays showing the ball had made contact with the back of a Dutch stick. However, because the incident occurred outside the attacking 23-metre area, it was deemed non-referrable and the goal stood.

Refusing to let the setback halt their momentum, the Hockeyroos continued to attack and were eventually rewarded through Steph Kershaw, who found the back of the net in the 23rd minute to reduce the deficit.

Kershaw was involved again as Australia drew level at 2-2, getting the faintest of touches on an Abi Williams flick to set up a thrilling finish against the tournament favourites.

With the match in the balance heading into the final quarter, the Netherlands showed why they are the world's top-ranked side.

The Dutch piled pressure on the Australian defence, earning five penalty corners in the final quarter, scoring twice in the space of four minutes through Burg and Marjin Veen to take control of Group A.

The Hockeyroos now turn their attention to Chile on Wednesday (5.30pm AEST).

With Australia beating Japan 2-0 in their opening game, a Hockeyroos victory will ensure their progress to the next stage, unless Japan unexpectedly beat the Dutch. In that case, goal difference will come into play so Australia will be seeking a large win over the South Americans.