Hockey: Great Britain beat Argentina in World League Semi-Final

Goals from Hannah Macleod and Sophie Bray took Danny Kerry’s side, who defeated Spain 2-0 in their opening match on Wednesday, to the top of the pool and secured a first win over Argentina since 1996.

The first quarter was an even affair but Britain spurned a golden chance to take the lead when Alex Danson missed a penalty stroke, her effort crashing against the woodwork.

Kate Richardson-Walsh went close for Britain in the second quarter, while Maddie Hinch made a superb low save to foil Carla Rebecchi at the other end.

Macleod broke the deadlock in the 37th minute when she fired home after Belen Succi had parried Susannah Townsend’s shot into her path.

Hinch then twice denied Rebecchi again before Delfina Merino blazed over as Argentina attempted to hit back.

Ricio Sanchez drew another save from Hinch in the final quarter, but Great Britain sealed the win with two minutes remaining when Bray looped the ball home after good work by Lily Owsley following Richardson-Walsh’s penalty corner.