Men's Hockey/Ireland 1 Argentina 0:Ireland defeated Argentina in Auckland today but could not get the two goal margin which would have booked their place in the Olympic play-off final.
Ireland, who are currently ranked 19th in the world, won the first penalty corner of the crunch match on 5 mins but Gleghorne's effort was saved around the post. However, it wasn't long before Argentina, currently ranked 7th in the world, began to assert their authority without creating any clear cuts chances.
The second half saw Ireland take the game to their higher ranked opponents but the steadfast defence of Argentina made it difficult for the Irish forwards.
As the game wore on though Ireland countered hard and some great movement from Eugene Magee won them their second penalty corner. Although Gleghorne's flick was saved Ronan Gormley followed up the rebound to sweep home for a one nil lead with 15 minutes to go.
Ireland pressed hard to get the second goal but found it impossible to break down the resolute Argentinan defence who secured their place in the Olympic play-off final despite losing the match.
"Whilst it is very disappointing to have missed out on the playoff by one goal on goal difference and not get the winning margin we required we can look back on an excellent performance during the group stages in what was only the second ever win against Argentina." said Ireland manager Steven Hiles.