Final despair for GB

Nicola White (left), of Great Britain, battles for the ball with Germany's Fanny Rinne during the semi-final showdown in Rosario, Argentina.

HOCKEY:

GREAT Britain's bid for a first gold medal at the women's Champions Trophy ended in disappointment as they lost 1–0 to hosts and favourites Argentina in Rosario.

Former Hulme Grammar School pupil Nicola White featured for the runners-up, who beat Germany 2-0 in the semi-finals.

The world champions dominated and although Danny Kerry's side picked up the tempo after the break, they were unable to create chances.

Had it not been for a number of saves from goalkeeper Beth Storry, particularly two from second–half penalty corners, the margin could have been greater.

But second place was the team's highest finish in this tournament, contested by the world's top eight, and shows they will be contenders for a medal at this summer's Olympics in London.

GB's defence, which had not conceded from a penalty corner in the competition, held out until the 28th minute when Silvina D'Elia slapped a fifth set–piece of the game through the legs of Storry.

The goalkeeper redeemed herself with a good double from another penalty corner.

Leicester defender Crista Cullen had GB's best chance of the game from a corner shortly before that but her effort was deflected behind.

Kerry’s side had more possession in the second period but could not find a way through.