IPSWICH schoolgirl Hannah Martin featured for Great Britain’s U21 women as they begun their quest for Australian Youth Olympic Festival glory in a spirited defeat yesterday.

The 17-year-old, from Holbrook, started for Team GB as they were defeated 3-0 by their Australian counterparts on the opening day of the tournament at the Hockey Centre, Sydney Olympic Park.

Despite enjoying a positive opening spell in 30 degrees heat, GB found themselves behind to a goal from Murphy Allendorf before the Aussies doubled their lead with a penalty corner goal from Mariah Williams.

In a closely-fought second half, Great Britain worked hard to create opportunities but it was the Jillaroos who added to their lead through Madison Fitzpatrick’s penalty corner.

Great Britain Head Coach Craig Keegan said: “While we’re disappointed with the result, we are upbeat with the quality of the performance.

“We had chances to score at crucial times in the game but didn’t take them.”

However, Britain can make amends tomorrow when they take on China – who defeated USA 5-2 – in the four nation round robin.

Team GB face USA on Saturday before hopefully competing for the gold medal at finals day on Sunday.

Martin, in the final year of sixth-form at Ipswich School, is the younger sister of Ipswich Olympian, Harry, who played for GB at this summer’s Olympics.