Nathan czinner

FIH Hockey Pro League: A strong second-half performance saw Belgium men safely sail past Argentina in a thrilling encounter in the Men's FIH Hockey Pro League at the Birsa Munda Stadium in Rourkela on Friday. Earlier in the day, Australia’s men had no trouble in overcoming Pakistan to extend their unbeaten run in Hobart, while Argentina’s women were made to work hard for their victory over an ever-improving Ireland.

In Rourkela, Arthur de Sloover celebrated his 200th appearance for Belgium in an exciting 5-2 win over Argentina in a match that was pegged at 2-2 with 11 minutes remaining.

A goalless opening quarter was played mostly between the 23-yard lines as both teams adopted a cautious approach, sitting back in their press and defending solidly. There were flashes of danger from both sides, and Argentina came very close to opening the scoring when a ball across the circle deflected into the goal off a defender. Replays suggested the initial pass came from just inside the circle, but Argentina chose not to refer it.