SA women through to semis despite loss to Germany
THE world No 12 South Africa women’s hockey team were edged 1-0 by world number three Germany, thanks to Eileen Hoffman’s 30thminute deflection goal in an actionpacked London Cup clash in Chiswick last night.
However, they have done enough to ensure a berth in Saturday’s semi-finals.
World number four Great Britain, who lost 3-1 to South Africa in an epic clash on Tuesday, have to beat Germany by two clear goals in today’s final pool match to reach the semis.
If they do that, Germany are out. Great Britain’s other option is to win by one goal after scoring four or more goals.
A seven-goal thriller between Germany and Great Britain is unlikely.
The South African defence were outstanding while the forwards, with Sulette Damons having a great second half, played at pace and with determi- nation up front and deserved at least one goal, particularly after the changeover.
Kate Woods, Dirkie Chamberlain, Marsha Marescia and Pietie Coetzee deserved more but German keeper Kristina Reynolds played a blinder.
Germany also had their chances in what was a very even match.
In yesterday’s earlier match Australia beat Ireland 4-1.
Tuesday’s opening round saw world number one Holland beat the Aussie Hockeyroos 2-1.
Today’s other pool fixture in this six-nation event sees Ireland face Holland at 6.30pm.
The semi-finals are on Saturday and feature the top two teams in each pool with the winners going through to Sunday’s final and the losers tackling each other in the bronze medal match.
The teams that end third in their pool will play off for fifth and sixth places on Sunday. – Sapa