LONDON, Aug 1: Shannon Taylor’s goal saw the United States to a shock 1-0 victory over world champions Argentina in the Olympic women’s hockey tournament on Tuesday.

This win saw the US repeat their Pan American Games final victory against world-ranked number two Argentina and stay in contention for a semi-final berth out of Pool ‘B’.

Both Argentina and the USA now have three points from two matches.

New Zealand lead the group with six points from two games after a 4-1 victory over South Africa, who have now conceded 11 goals.

Tuesday’s play ended with Australia defeating Germany 3-1. Four teams — Argentina, Australia, Germany and USA — are now tied on three points each behind New Zealand.

Defending champions the Netherlands and hosts Great Britain both staggered to victories over Asian opponents after conceding late goals in Pool ‘A’ play.

The Dutch beat Japan 3-2 and Britain were 5-3 winners over South Korea for their second straight victories to lead the pool table with six points each. The British victory moved the hosts to the top of Pool ‘A’ on goal difference.—AFP