India lose to Britain in play-off match

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Sydney: Britain have continued their impressive late surge in the Olympic men's hockey tournament, beating India 2-1 to move into the play-off for fifth spot.

Since being humbled 8-1 by Pakistan in their second game, Britain have drawn with Malaysia and Canada and defeated Germany and India.

"The disappointment of early on seems a long way away because we have been so focused on the last two games," said Britain coach Barry Dancer.

"This was a very significant win for British hockey because it guarantees us a place in the Champions Trophy next year and the World Cup in 2002.

"During the last five or six days these guys have taken steps to find out what it means to be Olympic athletes and winning hockey players.

"Considering where the core of young players are on their development curve, it would be a very good achievement if we can finish fifth in this tournament."

Despite going a goal down after nine minutes against India through Dilip Tirkey, the British always looked the more focused of the two sides.

Craig Parnham combined superbly with Mark Pearn to grab the equaliser in the 16th minute, and Calum Giles got the winner from a penalty corner in the 46th minute.



(c) Reuters Limited.