Australia have missed a medal in the men’s Olympic hockey competition for the first time since 1988 after losing 4-0 to the Netherlands on Monday morning (AEST).

The Kookaburras – the top ranked nation in the world – had no answers for the London silver medallists in a one-sided quarter-final in Rio de Janeiro.

The signs were bad almost immediately, as Billy Bakker gave the Dutch the lead after just 49 seconds.

Australia got back into the game but battled to convert their possession into chances, with Glenn Turner coming the closest to levelling proceedings.

Netherlands goalkeeper Jaap Stockmann produced an excellent save just before quarter-time to deny Turner.

Bakker continued to impress, producing a mazy run before feeding teammate Bob de Voogd to score the second goal of the game.

A dejected Simon Orchard contemplates defeat. Photo: Getty

And Australia’s chances looked dashed just after the main break when Valentin Verga converted from close range.

There was no let-up from the Netherlands, either, with Australia camped in their defensive half for long stages.

And Mink van der Weerden capped off their victory with his nation’s fourth goal.

Van der Weeden has now scored eight goals in the Olympic tournament.

Australia had won medals in six successive Olympic Games in the men’s hockey, a run that has included one gold medal (Athens 2004), one silver (Barcelona 1992) and four bronze medals.