England beat S Africa 3-1 to finish fourth in pool

Monchengladbach, Sep 13 (UNI) A double strike by Richard Mentell in a space of seven minute of the second half helped England overpower South Africa 3-1 and to finish fourth in pool 'b' of the Hockey World cup here today.

Both the teams were levelled 1-1 at half time.

England finished the pool's league assignment with six points from five matches while South Africa ended with two pints and fifth place ahead of India.

In an absorbing tussle South Africa took the lead in the 9th minute through Ian Symons who converted a penalty corner (1-0).

England drew parity eleven minutes later when James Tindall deflected the ball home and Video umpire upheld the goal.

Richard Mentell sealed the match for England as he scored a brace. He put his team ahead in the 41st minute and then consolidated the lead in the 48th minute.(3-1).

England did try to increase the lead in the remaining 22 minutes but South African defence foiled all their attacks.

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