SA men’s hockey team book first semifinal spot in two decades

A nailbiting victory over New Zealand in their final pool game on Thursday night ensured the South African men’s hockey team booked their first semifinal place at the Commonwealth Games in 20 years.

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The South Africans were 3-1 up at halftime but the Black Sticks fought their way back to level the match early in the final quarter, making for a nervous final period, as the New Zealanders only needed a draw to progress.

But Connor Beauchamp then slotted in the all-important goal off a penalty corner with seven minutes to play and South Africa withstood immense pressure at the death to seal the 4-3 win.

SA captain Tim Drummond was thrilled with his side’s victory.

"It was always going to be close. We knew how good New Zealand are and we had to be at our best. We were closer, but we missed quite a few chances," he said after the match.

The victory meant South Africa finished second in Pool A after one loss to Australia, a draw with Pakistan and a win against Scotland. They will face India in the final four while Australia and England will face off in the other semfinal.

"It doesn't matter who we play in the semis, we'll just focus on that game and see what happens,” said goalscorer Beauchamp.

"If we defend well, our counter-attack is something to be reckoned with, and our short corners are a big strength of ours, too," he added.

The last time the South African men reached the final four was at the Manchester Commonwealth Games in 2002 where they lost 3-1 to Australia and were then pummelled by Pakistan in the bronze medal playoff.

Meanwhile, after a tough campaign that included just one victory over Kenya and three losses – against New Zealand, Australia and Scotland – the SA women’s side will play off against Wales on Friday for seventh place.