Women's hockey: Germany held; Argentina down Korea

Strong contenders Germany were held to a 1-1 draw by New Zealand on the opening day of the Olympic women's hockey tournament.

In the opening match, a late goal saw Argentina score a hard-fought 3-2 victory over 1996 silver medallists South Korea in Pool A.

Mandy Smith's penalty-corner deflection three minutes from time gave New Zealand a precious point against Germany.

The Germans, who later complained bitterly about the umpiring, surrounded Australian umpire Michelle Arnold when the corner was awarded, contending that New Zealander Tina Kake-Bell had kicked the ball.

Heike Laetsch had put Germany ahead midway through the second half from a penalty-corner.

South Korea led 2-1 at halftime before Argentinian star Luciana Aymar equalised, and J Rimoldi grabbed a late winner.

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