The Chinese women's hockey team suffered a big blow at the World Cup qualifier as they lost to England 2-1 at last minute of the match.

China orchestrated to a good start, leading 1-0 only six minutes into the game through Ren Ye's shot.

England recovered and proceeded to set the tempo of the match before the a last-minute penalty corner goal to Helen Richardson to give England a vital win over tournament favorites China.

England are now favored to take one of the top two spots in Pool A and with it a berth at the Samsung Hockey World Cup in Madrid later this year. They face France on Friday and a victory will take them to the brink of qualification.

Japan sits atop Pool A ahead of England on goal difference after dispatching a determined Ukraine in the second match of the day.

Although they had a significant advantage in territory and possession for most of the contest, loose Japanese defense after the break allowed Ukraine into the match, with only inefficiency in front of goal denying the underdogs the lead in a frantic opening to the second half.

Fortunately for Japan, they rediscovered their focus and eventually transferred their dominance in general play onto the scoreboard, with Tomomi Komori and Kaori Chiba notching doubles to lift their team into top spot in Pool A.

Ukraine continue to take the pitch without the services of star midfielder Tetyana Kobzenko due to a knee injury.

The absence of the brilliant 29-year-old has robbed Ukraine of most of their playing-making ability and without her inspiration, they face a tough battle to make it into the playoffs for fifth place despite their determination and willingness to compete.

In the late match, France produced a storming second half to overwhelm Scotland and snatch a surprise victory. They are now level with China on three points and in a good position to at least finish in the top four of Pool A.

While the top two in each pool after the completion of the round phase will earn a place at the World Cup, the third and fourth placed teams are still in with a chance via the fifth place playoff over the last three days of the tournament.

(CRI English April 27, 2006)