Britain’s men’s hockey team came from 2-0 down to book their place in the Olympic quarter-finals with a game to spare thanks to a 2-2 draw with the Netherlands.
Goals from Thierry Brinkman and Jip Janssen put the European champions ahead but Sam Ward’s double levelled things before Team GB survived a late penalty corner to hold on for a crucial point, given they face group leaders Belgium, who have won all four of their games so far, in their final pool match.
While Team GB’s women took a famous gold in Rio five years ago, their male counterparts suffered a disastrous pool stage exit.
This morning’s draw, however, means they are just one knockout win away from a guaranteed shot at a medal.
“We’re building into the tournament,” Ward added.
“To come back from 2-0 down to get a draw so late is massive, and it’s the springboard we need to plough on. Tournament hockey is about momentum, and if we can build on that today and take it into tomorrow and the quarters, then anything can happen.”
