Netherlands downs Australia 2-1 in women's hockey.

Reigning world champions the Netherlands snatched their fourth win and secured a semifinal spot, defeating Australia 2-1 in the Olympic women's hockey on Saturday.

Australia, ranked fourth in the world, suffered their first loss since the tournament started.

Australia went 1-0 up on a field goal from Sarah Young in the 17th minute. However, just three minutes later, Maartje Paumen from Holland leveled the score to 1-1 with a penalty corner. He scored his second in the 46th minute, also a penalty corner, and set up the Dutch's win.

The Dutch have topped Pool A with 12 points.

Australia's loss provided China a chance to fight for a berth in the semifinals. If China could defeat South Korea later in the day, the berth would be accessible to either China or Australia. The two will meet in the last round of preliminary stage on Monday.

In another morning game, the United States beat New Zealand 4-1.

United States beats New Zealand 4-1.

(Xinhua News Agency August 16, 2008)