India lose to Spain in final warm-up game ahead of Olympics

Santander (Spain): Indian men`s hockey team`s preparation for the London Olympics ended on a disappointing note as they lost 1-2 to hosts Spain in the final league match of the tri-nation invitational tournament.

In their final warm-up game on Wednesday ahead of the Olympic Games starting next week, the Indians started well, especially the back line which denied the home team several times in the first half. Goalkeeper PR Sreejesh was also excellent in front of the goal, pulling off a two-stage save -- sweeping the ball off the goal-line after having initially parrying David Alegre`s hit. After being locked at 0-0 at the break, Spain took advantage of vice-captain Sardar Singh`s injury, who was off the field for nearly 20 minutes, and gained the lead in the 42nd minute through a penalty corner converted by Alegre. Miquel Delas scored another penalty corner goal for Spain in the 61st minute. India, however, reduced the margin three minutes later when V R Raghunath scored from a penalty corner. Great Britain won the tournament with two victories while Spain finished second. The Indian team will leave Spain for the Olympic Games in London tomorrow. PTI