Olympic round-up: Classification matches

In the classification matches for world ranking points, Spain claimed seventh place on golden goal, beating one of the Games surprise performers, USA 3-2. Esther Termons opener was leveled by America’s Dana Sensenig in the first half.

Inside the last ten minutes, the action heated up with Termons, Carrie Lingo and Nuria Camon all picking up yellow cards in a ten minute span. A goal apiece came during that time with Angie Loy volleying in Kelli Smith’s hit but Raquel Huertas’ reverse forced extra-time.

The Spanish finished stronger to once again score in the final minute when Rocio Ybarra scored from a set-piece past the excellent Amy Train – who must be a candidate for keeper of the tournament – to confirm seventh.

The ninth place tie went the way of Korea, beating their oriental neighbours Japan. Jeong Sook Park deflected Seon Ok Lee’s crash ball for the only meaningful action in a slow first-halfJapan came out stronger after the break and Rima Komazawa got the equaliser.

Parity was short-lived, though, as Park’s diving deflection gave Korea the lead back inside a minute to take the 2-1 win.