SA’S semis hopes stay alive despite defeat

THE world No 12 Investec South Africa women’s hockey team might have been edged 1-0 by world No3 Germany thanks to Eileen Hoffman’s 30th minute deflection goal in an action-packed Investec London Cup clash in Chiswick, London last night but they have done enough to ensure a berth in Saturday’s semifinals.

For world No4 Great Britain, who were upset 3-1 by SA in an epic clash on Tuesday night, to reach the semis they have to beat Germany by two goals in today’s 9pm (SA time) final pool match. If they do that, then Germany are out. Great Britain’s other option is to win by one goal after scoring four or more goals. A sevengoal thriller between Germany and GB is unlikely.

The SA defence was outstanding while the SA forwards, with Sulette Damons having a great second half, were playing at pace and with determination up front and deserved at least a goal, particularly after the changeover.

Kate Woods, Dirkie Chamberlain, Marsha Marescia and Pietie Coetzee deserved more but Germany goalkeeper 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 No1 Holland beat the Aussie Hockeyroos 2-1.

Today’s other pool fixture in this six-nation event sees Ireland face Holland at 6.30pm SA time.

The semi-finals on Saturday feature the top two teams in each pool with the winners going through to Sunday’s final while the losers fight it out for bronze.

The teams that end third in their pool will play off for fifth and sixth places on Sunday.

British hockey officials apologised to South Africa’s women’s team yesterday for mistakenly playing the apartheid era anthem Die Stem at the tournament ahead next month’s Olympics.

Great Britain hockey published a “full and unreserved apology” on their website for the gaffe before their clash against the host nation at the London Cup on Tuesday.

“The error was made by a contractor responsible for sports presentation at the event,” it said.

“Great Britain Hockey and their contractor appreciate the sensitive nature of this unfortunate mistake and we apologise unreservedly for the offence caused.”

South African Hockey Association chief executive Marissa Langeni had written to the competition manager to demand an assurance that it would not happen again. – Reuters