China were defeated 1-0 by the Netherlands for the first time in the Olympic women's hockey tournament?in Beijing?on Thursday.
By beating both Spain and South Africa 3-0 in the first two games, it was the first goal China conceded at the Beijing Olympics.
World champions the Netherlands, after beating South Africa 6-0 and South Korea 3-2, once again proved their strong power. However, the play with China was never easy. The only goal came in the 21st minute when Maartje Paumen scored a penalty corner.
China had a chance of penalty corner in the 45th minute, but they failed to convert it. No matter how hard they fought, they still could not crack down the Dutch defense.
Dutch coach Marc Lammers thought it's really a heavy game for them. "China is very strong and defensive, and very difficult to play," sadi Lammers. "I'm happy with the result. It's enough for us."
"The Netherlands is the world No. 1 team and they are very outstanding in skills and tactics," said China coach Kim Chang Back. "We did not do well in the coordination of attack and defense. Though we played all out in the second half, we still lost."
Australia, routing South Africa 3-0, have achieved three wins and now top Pool A with nine points. The Netherlands, with one goal difference deficit, rank the second with also nine points.
With six points, China have to win the next two games against South Africa and Australia to book a berth in semifinals.
South Korea were beaten by Spain 2-1 as their third defeat. Germany powered past the United States 4-2 and became the only unbeaten team in Pool B.
On the same day, Argentina beat Japan 2-1 and Britain upset New Zealand 2-1.
(Xinhua News Agency August 15, 2008)