SYDNEY- Spain secured nineth position in the men’s Olympic hockey with a convincing 3-0 victory over Canada, Saturday.
The Spaniards dominated play striking early through Xavier RIBAS’ penalty corner conversion.

Canada came close to scoring in the 15th minute when Scott MOSHER almost capitalised on a goal-mouth confusion but keeper Ramon JUFRESA was alert.

Edi TUBAU put the Spaniards two up with his power-driven reverse shot eight minutes later. The rest of the half was lacklustre with Canada trying hard to score.

In the sceond half, the Spanish forwards continued their attacking tempo but it was only in the 55t minute that Juan
ESCARRE sealed victory with a field goal. Canada’s Andrew GRIFFITHS, Chris GIFFORD and younger players Bindi KULLAR and Ravi KAHLON impressed.

Both teams gave their younger players time on the field. Regular keeper Mike MAHMOOD gave way to Hari KANT and Spanish reserve keeper Bernardino HERRERA came in the final moments of the game.