Jackson scores twice but GB are held (From The Argus)

Jackson scores twice but GB are held

5:51pm Wednesday 1st August 2012 in Sport By Andy Naylor

East Grinstead hockey star Ashley Jackson scored both goals as Team GB were held to an action-packed 2-2 draw against South Africa.

Jackson fired into the root of the net from a penalty corner to give GB an interval lead at the Riverbank Arena.

South Africa hit back through skipper Austin Smith and Jon Robinson's low drive. 

Jackson levelled late on when het got the crucial touch on a shot, the goal standing after a lengthy umpire's referral.

The golden boy of the domestic game had a chance to win it for GB at the death and complete his hat-trick in the process from another penalty corner but outstanding keeper Erasmus Pieterse denied him.

Jackson's East Grinstead team-mate Barry Middelton earned his 100th cap in the match, which also featured Glenn Kirkham and Iain Lewers from the Sussex club.

The result puts extra pressure on GB to beat Pakistan in their third group game on Friday after an opening 4-1 win against Argentina, with Australia hot favourites to claim one of the semi-final places.