Great Britain’s missionary approach to the hockey tournament was rewarded with a thrilling 3-3 draw against Australia that leaves them needing only a draw against Spain tomorrow to qualify for the semi-final.
Three-nil down early in the second half after being outplayed, Britain’s men fought back superbly to earn a point with goals from Jonty Clarke, Barry Middleton and James Tindall.
“One thing we wanted to do was be entertaining and play attacking hockey, and make sure the British public felt hockey was worth watching,” said coach Jason Lee.
The rapturous reception from a full house at the Riverbank Arena was testimony to their success.
Another big crowd is guaranteed tomorrow, especially since the four teams contesting two qualifying places are in direct opposition.
Australia and Great Britain, both on eight points, are the favourites but Pakistan and Spain, their respective opponents, are only a point behind after winning yesterday.
“In the world rankings we’re ahead of Spain but only by a fag paper,” Lee said. “In the Champions Trophy last year we lost 8-1 to them although we played poorly because of the physical state we were in. They’ve had a couple of injuries this tournament but it would be a big mistake to give any credibility to that. It’s going to be a tough game and if we have any lingering thoughts about tonight, then we’ll struggle.
“They’ve got quality throughout the pitch, some silky attacking forwards and solid defence.”
Australia coach Ric Charlesworth admitted that his team cannot afford any more of the defensive laxity that has allowed both Britain and Argentina to come from behind to draw with them.
The Australians had appeared to be in complete control after the third goal, scored by their captain Mark Knowles, who said: “To give up these goals is really disappointing. The top five or six teams in the world are so close. It’s the Olympics and you don’t expect an easy ride.”
