Pakistan’s chances of reaching the semi-finals of the Beijing Olympic hockey have become more difficult when they were defeated by defending champions Australia 1-3.
Captain Zeeshan Ashraf and manager Khawaja Zakauddin severely criticized the umpiring decisions. Pakistan began this important match of Group ‘B’ in a brilliant way and obtained lead over Australia when Shakeel Abbasi netted goal in the 16th minute. However, Sobert of Australia immediately equaled the score 1-1 and this score remained the same throughout the first half. The forwards of the national team again started brilliantly and made good movements but could not make any goal. Meanwhile, Jimmy Dyre made goal in the 39th minute to get Australia a 2-1 lead and in the 59th minute, Davis Brookes scored another goal to take the lead to 3-1. Two Pakistan players were shown yellow cards during the match.
|
