U.S. women's field hockey team beats S. Africa 3-1

The United States women's field hockey team on Monday beat their South African rival 3-1 in the sport's World Cup in Madrid, rescuing the U.S. from last place in Group B of the competition.

Lee Bodimeade, head coach for the U.S. team, was focused from the moment his team hit the field, particular on the goal guarded by South African keeper, Caroline Jack.

The U.S. opened scoring in the 14th minute, shooting into the goalmouth from a pass by Carrie Lingo. Maintaining a strong attacking pace, the U.S. hemmed in their rivals, extending their advantage to 2-0 in the 24th minute, with a Lingo goal.

South Africa seemed to be swimming upstream, outplayed in all areas by their motivated rivals.

Masha Marescia counterattacked, scoring a goal for the South Africans in minute 52, but the U.S.'s April Fronzoi swiftly replied with her own goal, taking the score to 3-1.

In Monday's other game, Japan and Australia ended with a goal-less draw, which effectively means Australia, with 10 points, is guaranteed to go through to the knockout phase of the competition. Japan now has two points.

The points in Group B are as follows: Australia 10, United States four, South Africa two, and Japan two. Argentina and South Korea, who did not play on Monday, have 10 and four respectively.

In the last day of the group phase the United States will play South Korea and South Africa will play Japan.

Source: Xinhua