READING’S Nick Catlin tucked home a brilliant strike for Great Britain’s hockey team, but couldn’t prevent them from crashing 4-1 in their opening group game at the Olympic Hockey Centre.
Twenty-seven year-old Catlin, who lives in Pinkneys Green, got brilliant back on level terms just before half-time with a well-taken goal.
Belgium had earlier taken the lead after just six minutes when a quick break into the circle set up Jerome Truyens to fire past George Pinner.
However, Belgium took control of the contest with two goals in two minutes just after the break, with Tanguy Cosyns firing in from a penalty corner and Simon Gougnard slotting home after Pinner's attempted clearance fell straight to him on the edge of the area.
Cedric Charlier completed the scoring five minutes from time to leave Britain and midfielder Catlin, playing in his second Olympic Games, looking to bounce back against New Zealand on Sunday.
There was disappointment for Newbury-based fencer, Leonara Mackinnon.
The 22-year-old, who was representing Canada, lost out in the round of 32 in the women’s epee, losing 15-8 to Italy’s Rossella Fiamingo, who went on to reach the semi-finals
Mackinnon took part in last night’s glittering Opening Ceremony before competing in the Carioca Arena today where she was watched by her proud parents Donald and Marie-Pauline, who still live in Newbury.
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