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12 June 2004
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Saturday
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23 Rabi-us-Saani 1425
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Britain again shock Pakistan to win tri-nation hockey
NOTTINGHAM, June 11: Britain produced yet another shock when they upset Pakistan 2-1 to win the tri-nation hockey tournament at Highfields Sports Club on Friday.
All the three goals came in the second half. Jerome Goudie and Tom Bertram scored the goals for the hosts, while Kashif Jawwad netted for Pakistan.
It was for the first time in 56 years that Britain scored back-to-back victories against Pakistan. Britain beat Pakistan in London Olympics semi-finals in 1948 and also in the semi-finals at Helsinki Olympics in 1952.
Brett Garrard of Britain was declared player of the tournament and match. Britain's victory came despite the absence of penalty corner specialist Ben Hawes who scored two goals in his team's shock 3-2 win over Pakistan in Cannock.
Hawes did not play after pulling his calf muscle before the match during warm-up. Goudie replaced Hawes. The home team got off to a fine start and forced four short corners in third and fourth minutes of the first half. The attacks were thwarted by Pakistan defenders and goalkeeper Salman Akbar.
Pakistan forwards struggled in the opening session and could manage just one shot at the goal. Mudassar Ali, Rehan Butt and Kashif made a move but Britain goalkeeper Jon Ebsworth blocked the attempt.
Britain took the lead in the 38th minute with Goudie. Kashif drew level after a pass from Mudassar in the 45th minute. Tariq Aziz came close to give Pakistan the lead in the 59th minute but Ebsworth produced a smart save. Bertram netted to make it 2-1 for Britain.
In all, Britain forced eight short corners, while Pakistan got just one penalty corner six minutes from close. Sohail Abbas's flick rattled the bar before sailing over the bar. Kashif came close to equalise seconds before the hooter but his shot went above the crossbar.
Pakistan team will be flying to Hamburg on Saturday via Amsterdam on the second leg of their European tour. They will play two Test matches against Germany on Sunday and Monday before taking part in four-nation event starting from June 18. -APP
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