German girls thrash US in women's hockey, eye SF

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German girls thrash US in women's hockey, eye SF

Beijing, August 14:: Defending champions Germany and title contenders the Netherlands stepped closer to the semi-finals of the Olympic women's field hockey with their third wins on Thursday.

The German girls, who won their maiden Olympic title at Athens four years ago, beat the United States 4-2 in a pool B match after being held 1-1 at half-time.

The Dutch, who lost the Athens final to the Germans, overcame a fighting China 1-0 in pool A with Maartje Paumen scoring the winner with a penalty corner in the 21st minute. Dutch coach Marc Lammers, whose world champion side was given a fright by the hosts, said he was very impressed the way the Chinese played.

"We were lucky to win today," he said. "The Chinese have improved a lot in the last few months. They are a much stronger side now, a physical and strong team. It was a difficult match for us and I am glad we came out of it well."

China's Korean coach Kim Chang-Back, whose team made the semi-finals at Athens, said there was a lot to learn from the Dutch.

"They are the top team in the world and showed it on the field," said Kim. "They have outstanding technique and are able to adjust to different situations. We study each opponent and try and take the good points."

China, who dropped their first points in the tournament, play Kim's home team South Korea next Saturday.

"We have to beat both Korea and Australia to remain in contention," said the coach. "It's not going to be easy but we have our plans for the Korean team. There are no special feelings about playing against a team from my country. I am the Chinese coach and want China to win."

The Germans were wary of the American girls who had forced creditable draws against Champions Trophy winners Argentina and Japan in their first two matches.

The Americans, ranked 11th in the world, once again stunned their rivals by taking the lead in the 27th minute through Tiffany Snow.

Natascha Keller ensured the Germans went level at half-time with a solo effort in the 34th minute, and Fanny Rinne and Marion Rodewald pumped in two penalty corners after resumption.

Angela Loy reduced the margin for the Americans in the 60th minute, but their defeat was sealed when Anke Kuehn scored Germany's fourth goal through a penalty corner six minutes before the end.