The Indian men`s hockey team held off a late surge from the Spanish armada to notch up a crucial 3-2 win in Group B before talented one-lapper K M Beenamol became the first Indian after 16 years, and the third woman athlete ever, to enter the semi-finals of the Olympic Games athletics competition at Sydney today. The encouraging results from the hockey turf and the athletics track brought much cheer to the Indian camp on the eighth day of the games.
The day began well with the hockey squad staying on course for booking a berth in the last four from Group B by knocking out 1996 silver medallists Spain from medal reckoning. Forward Baljit Dhillon scored two goals and the other goal, India`s second, was scored by full back Dilip Tirkey. But the more encouraging part of the Indian show was that they converted all the chances that came their way unlike during their 0-2 loss to South Korea in their previous tie.
Then Jude Menezes came up with some brilliant saves in the second half to deny the Spaniards their third equaliser.
India`s points tally went up to 7 after the win over Spain and they have a match in hand against the vastly improved Poland on Tuesday. Australia, after their 2-1 victory over Argentina, were heading the table with 8 points followed by India in the second spot.
Korea, with 5 points from 3 ties, were in third position, but had two matches in hand against Poland and Australia.
Bureau Report