Date:29/09/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/09/29/stories/2006092901892100.htm

Sport

South Africans hold Korea

England shocks China

DOGGED DEFENCE: South Africa's Jen Wilson (lying on the ground) stops South Korea's Young Soon Park in her stride in their Pool `B' match. — Photo: AP

MADRID: Korea was held to a goalless draw by a gritty South Africa in their Pool `B' encounter of the women's World Cup hockey tournament here on Thursday.

Jen Wilson, playing in her 100th match for South Africa, was inspirational as she kept charging at the Korean forwards and forcing them into errors.

After the break, Korea increased the pressure and had South Africa pinned to its half. But the Asians began to fade in the hot conditions and had to be content with a stalemate after their 2-1 win against Japan on Wednesday.

Coach pleased

South Africa coach Jenny King was pleased with his team's first point after the 1-0 loss to Australia.

``I'm pleased with our first point in the event although no goals in two games is a concern,'' said King. ``Our defence today was outstanding but we gave the ball away too easily.''

Late on Wednesday, England caused a major surprise in its opening match when it beat China 3-2 in Pool `A'.

Alex Dawson struck early, while Lucille Wright and Christa Cullen scored at a crucial juncture to seal the match in England's favour.

China had every chance but England employed close marking across all positions to unsettle the Asians who scored through Ma Yi Bo and Ren Ye. Australia achieved a lacklustre 1-0 win against South Africa, thanks to a goal from Nicole Arrold just before half-time.

Spain beat Germany 1-0 in an exciting Pool `A' contest. The goal came through Racquel Huertas.

In another match, defending champion Argentina beat the United States 2-1 through goals from Augustina Garcia and Magdelena Alcega. Kelly Doton scored the consolation goal for the Americans.

The results: Australia bt U.S. 3-1; South Korea drew with South Africa 0-0.

Earlier results: England bt China 3-2. Spain bt Germany 1-0; Argentina bt U.S. 2-1; Australia bt South Africa 1-0. — Agencies