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Argentine Gilardi's late goal stuns the Netherlands

Argentina upset the Netherlands 1-0 for the first time in a major competition and became the only unbeaten side at the field hockey Champions Trophy on Tuesday.

Argentina, the lowest-ranked of the six competing teams and the only one not going to the Olympics, produced a last-minute goal by Juan Gilardi for their first win in 14 matches over the Dutch at either the Olympics, World Championship or Champions Trophy.

In other matches, Australia and Spain drew 1-1, and Germany beat South Korea 4-3 for their first win.

After three matches each, Argentina have seven points, the Netherlands have six, Spain, Australia and Germany four each, and South Korea none.

In a fast end-to-end match, Argentina enjoyed more chances than the Dutch, but both appeared headed toward the first scoreless draw in 13 years at the tournament. Then Argentina drew a penalty corner with a minute left and Gilardi’s drag-flick into the bottom left of the goal capped a thrilling match.

The result followed Argentina’s opening day draw with world and defending champions Germany and a win over Olympic champions Australia.

Argentina have never finished higher than fifth at the Champions, but have a shot at making Sunday’s final.

Australia scored in the 55th minute through Grant Schubert off a nice run by Jamie Dwyer. Spain equalized through David Alegre six minutes from the end.
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