England's prospects of qualification for September's World Cup received a set-back in Chanzhou today when they lost to Pakistan in their penultimate pool match. England took a first half lead through a penalty corner strike by Reading's Richard Mantell. Pakistan were soon on even terms thanks to Mudassa Ali Khan and a penalty corner by Rehan BUTT. The second half showed signs of an England revival when Richard Mantell's brother, Simon, netted in open play. However, a field goal by Muhammad Saqlain gave Pakistan the victory; 3-2. England must win in the final pool game against Belgium on Wednesday in order to guarantee qualification. If they finish third in the pool they have the saftey net of one place for the fifth placed team in the tournament.
Meanwhile, in Edinburgh, Leceister have taken the bronze medal in the women's European Club Championship, winning 4-1 against Viktoria Smolevichi. In Reading, the Spanish side Campo de Madrid beat Club an der Alster to take the bronze in the men's competition. Reading play later today for the opportunity to win gold.
