Gleghorne salvages draw as Great Britain tie series with South Africa

By Sportsbeat staff

MARK Gleghorne snatched a late equaliser as Great Britain's hockey men concluded their three Test series against South Africa with a 3-3 draw in Stellenbosch.

ON TARGET: Mark Gleghorne scored as Great Britain drew 3-3 with South Africa in Stellenbosch, meaning the three match Test series ends deadlocked (Ady Kerry)

After a win apiece in previous matches this encounter was destined to be decisive and the visitors sprung into an early lead as Mark Pearn and Barry Middleton steered Great Britain ahead.

But three goals in six second half minutes - a Wade Paton penalty corner and strikes from Lloyd Norris-Jones and Julian Hykes - turned the encounter back in South Africa's favour.

However, Gleghorne flicked powerfully to the right of the goalkeeper at a 59th minute penalty corner to salvage a draw.

“We controlled the game effectively in the first half,” said British team manager Andy Halliday. 

“But we paid the price for a very sloppy first ten minutes after half time.

“However, it was good to see the character of the group shine through as we battled back to grab an equaliser, and we could’ve snatched a winner near the end. 

“This has been a gruelling two-week camp for the players, but I thought they showed good resilience in their attitude and approach to the game.”

© Sportsbeat 2012