Double for Middleton against Argentina

OLYMPIC HOCKEY  – MEN

GREAT BRITAIN  4  ARGENTINA 1

Two goals from Barry Middleton was the foundation of
Great Britain men`s solid 4-1 win over Argentina in the opening
pool match of the London Olympics, and puts Jason Lee`s charges in
second spot behind Australia on goal difference.

The first half belonged almost totally to Team GB, Matt Daly had
the ball in the net in the early exchanges but it was disallowed as
the ball had struck his body.   The home side finally
took the lead in 22 minutes, the Argentina goalkeeper saved the
initial penalty corner strike only for Barry Middleton to smash the
rebound into the roof of the net off the keeper`s
arm.  

Middleton doubled the score eight minutes into the second half
with a reverse stick shot from the top of the circle.  The
three points were sealed in tow minutes, Dan Fox made it three
after good build-up work from Ashley Jackson, then Richard Smith
scored from a penalty corner shot that went in off the keeper`s
foot.   Pedro Ibarra pulled one back at a set piece, but
little more than a consolation.

In the other pool matches world number one Australia showed
their credentials with a 6-0 thrashing of South Africa, Jamie Dwyer
notching a hat-trick, while Spain and Pakistan fought out a 1-1
draw.

Recent posts:

• Scotland Women to face Ireland and Belgium in Dublin
• Western Wildcats move up to second in the men`s Premiership
• Sports bodies call on First Minister to deliver long promised Government funding boost in upcoming Budget as cash crisis leaves them “running on empty”
• Strategy for Hockey in Scotland - Consultation (Closing date for feedback Sunday 30th November)
• No change at the top of the Premierships at the end of the first phase
• The ultimate Premiership weekend coming up
• Musical chairs at the top of the Premierships
• Getting to the business end of the Premiership`s first stage
• Seeking volunteers for Scottish Hockey performance strategy development
• A big result or two in the Scottish Cup