South Africa squandered their lead from the first quarter of their opening Pool B match to lose 2-1 to the Aussies.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Bobbs said, despite the loss, she is impressed with the way her teammates came out firing against a highly-ranked team.

"Coming into the first match against Australia, we knew it was going to be a tough games, especially against a team that's been performing really well on the international stage of late, but the girls put in a good shift – we came out firing, scoring the first goal," said Bobbs.

"To be honest, we were really competitive throughout the game, we ran hard, stuck to our game plan, and it's just a pity we couldn't come away with a point. But that's sport, we just have to keep going."

South Africa dominated the first quarter, with Kayla de Waal scoring their first-ever goal against Australia, which later got cancelled out by Stephanie Kershaw and Tatum Stewart who ensured the Hockeyroos started the Paris Olympics on a winning note.

Bobbs said the first goal was special and testament to what they wanted to achieve throughout the game.

"Scoring the first goal against Australia was a very special moment for the team – we wanted to come out and play with speed, and capitalise on our counter-attacks, which we did with that goal," she added.

"And I'm very proud of the team for getting the first goal, and especially for Kayla for that wonderful finish – it was super, super special to score at the Olympic Games."

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