LONDON, Aug 8 (AFP): Spain claimed Olympic hockey officials caved into pressure from their British opponents as the hosts reached the semi-finals for the first time since 1988.
The game, which finished 1-1 yesterday, saw a succession of late corners forced by 2008 runners-up Spain overturned by the umpire. When the final whistle sounded, some Spanish players converged on the South African umpire John Wright, who had been officiating at the end they were attacking.
Spanish officials then came on to shepherd their players away. Spain finished third in Pool A and are out of the competition. A furious Daniel Martin, coach of the Spanish team, told reporters that the International Hockey Federation (FIH) would have to look into the conduct of their officials.
�It cannot happen that an official changes his decision twice because he is surrounded by opposition (British) players,� Martin told a crowded press conference.
