Last minute goal sinks Indian hopes of Olympic medal Saturday, August 21 2004 16:50 Hrs (IST)
Athens:
Another last minute goal sunk India's hopes of an Olympic medal in men's hockey when the eight-time gold-medallists suffered a humiliating 1-2 loss against unfancied New Zealand in a Pool B match in Athens today (Aug 21, 2004).
India, needing to win the match to retain their slim chances for a semi final berth, suffered the reverse after Hayden Shaw scored the winner off a penalty corner amidst much drama in the 70th minute.
The other scorer for New Zealand was Phillip Burrows (36th minute) while veteran Dhanraj Pillay scored the lone goal for India in the 62nd minute.
This was India's third loss in four matches and even a win in their last match against Argentina will not be enough as they would lag behind holders Holland and Australia in the points tally.
Holland is now on nine points from three games and Australia on seven from three. Even a win against Argentina will take India's points tally to only six.