Pakistan beat Australia 2-0

Cologne:

World Cup silver medallist Australia's disastrous run in the Champions Trophy continued as they crashed to their fifth consecutive defeat, losing 0-2 to Pakistan in their last league match here today. Australia will now play-off for 5th-6th position with either South Korea or Pakistan. Pakistan ensured their second victory in the tournament, their first coming against Korea, whom they had beaten 4-1. With six points in their kitty, Pakistan are in a position to challenge India in the bronze medal play-off. Even if India lose to Korea in their last league match, the Koreans will have to win by more than a four-goal margin to have any chance of playing off for the bronze medal and deprive fans of yet another opportunity to witness another India-Pakistan clash. Against Pakistan today, the midfield did some good work but the Aussie frontline muffed chances just approaching the Pakistan circle. Thrice two Aussie forwards only had one Pakistan defender in front, after a counter-attack, but they still failed to give finishing touches. Pakistan opened the scoring sheets in the 22nd minute when Sohail Abbas fired in a perfect drag-flick that beat Martin Leon in goal. At the break, Pakistan led 1-0. After resumption, Australia forced their way up and raised visions of equalising. But the finish and the vision from the midfield was just not inspiring enough for the Aussies to raise their level of game. They played some hard hockey but against a Pakistan side that wanted a win at all costs, it just wasn't good enough. In the 57th minute, Pakistan forged a move that increased the lead and took the match beyond Australia. Kashif Jawad picked up a ball and threaded his way in before passing it to Mudassar Ali Khan who neatly tapped it into the Australian goal. (PTI)