In a repeat of the Tokyo 2020 final, champions Belgium made a statement with a 6-2 mauling of Australia
Tom Boon scored a superb hat-trick to guarantee their place in the men’s knockout stages of at the Yves-du-Manoire Stadium.
To cap a sweltering day in Colombes, Boon saved the best until last – worthy of dipping into any ice bath – as he scooped the ball up in the circle and calmly slotted a volley reverse home.
The goal was allowed to stand after being cited for danger with an Australia ducking.
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“The game was very good. We scored some pretty nice goals, although I think the statistics were pretty even,” said Florent van Aubel.
He was right. Even possession, while Australia recorded two shots on goal from 19 attempts. It was their first two open play goals of Paris 2024 however.
Meanwhile, Belgium scored four PCs from their nine attempts. A decent strike rate compared to the tournament as a whole.
Germany bounce back
Third placed Great Britain sit one point behind second placed Germany, who bounced back from Sunday’s loss to Spain in brilliant style.
Gonzalo Peillat, with a brace, Christopher Rühr, Justus Weigand and Mats Grambusch all netted in a 5-2 win over South Africa, who are fifth in the table.
“South Africa showed (by drawing against Great Britain on Sunday) that they can compete on the highest level”, said Rühr.
“So we had to play our A-game today, and we played really well and scored five goals, which is not even undeserved.”
France finally on the board
Spain ended the day occupying fourth place in Pool A having twice trailed host nation France at the start of it.
There was another roar to savour as France opened up a 2-0 lead thanks to two brilliant Timothee Clement goals. Pepe Cunill’s 51st minute penalty corner earned a 3-3 draw for the Red Sticks.
Quote of the day
“It was deliberate. It’s my tennis player’s attitude. Before I played hockey, I played tennis, so (that is how) I touched the ball like that. I was a good player when I was 15 years old. I played for the French national (side), but had to choose (between tennis and hockey) when I was 15 years old. I think I made the right choice. Now it’s more difficult to play.”
Clement on his goal and beyond
