Aug. 4, 2012
LONDON - The United States women's field hockey team was knocked out of medal contention on Saturday afternoon in London as a late goal by New Zealand doomed the Americans in a 3-2 loss.
A goal on a penalty corner in the 64th minute of action by Australia's Clarissa Eshuis was the difference after a combined four goals were scored in an action packed first half. The U.S. took just two shots but scored on both as New Zealand racked up 20 shots, 13 of which were on goal, and seven penalty corners.
Australia's Kayla Sharland scored on a penalty corner in just the second minute of play to begin the day's scoring action but the United States' Kathleen O'Donnell tied the game in the 16th minute on a goal. Gemma Flynn would give Australia back the lead in the 19th minute on a penalty corner until Claire Laubach scored on a penalty corner of her own in the 34th minute just before half to knot the match back up for the Americans.
Former ODU star and 2006 CAA Player of the Year Caroline Nichols played in 50 minutes for the second straight game.
The loss eliminates the United States from advancing to the semifinals and medal round as only the top two teams from each bracket advance. The remaing eight teams will play to determine the fifth through 12th spots.
In their final match of pool play on Monday, The United States (1-3) takes on New Zealand (0-4) at 5:45 a.m. (ET) on NBC Sports Network. For updated results and schedule, visit London2012.com.
Group B Standings
Australia (3-1) (9 points)
New Zealand (3-1) (9 points)
Argentina (2-1) (6 points)
Germany (2-1) (6 points)
United States (1-3) (3 points)
South Africa (0-4) (0 points)