Rob Moore scored a last-gasp winner to help steer Great Britain to a crucial 3-2 victory over India in the Olympic qualifying tournament yesterday. The Surbiton striker slid in to deflect in a cross from Simon Mantell who had evaded several India defenders on the by-line.

The result leaves Britain needing only a draw in their final game against Austria on Saturday to qualify for Sunday's final.

Meanwhile, India, who have not missed an Olympic Games since 1928 and have won a record-breaking eight gold medals, must beat the hosts in their last match to book their place in the final and set up a re-match.

Jason Lee, the GB head coach, said even if the team lost to Austria their overwhelming superior goal difference would see them through. He added:" I hope we play a bit better. The intense heat here makes it very tough and we really struggled in the conditions. We started poorly and were a bit nervous and gave the ball away but we stuck at it and for the most part kept our shape and played efficiently."

Trailing 1-0 after only three minutes when India took the lead through a powerful drag flick by V R Raghunath, Britain responded superbly to regain the initiative and fight back to level the scores. Richard Mantell swept in the equaliser from the team's only corner of the first half in the 15th minute.

With India twice down to ten men after their players were sent to the sin bin for niggling fouls, GB had their chances to increase their advantage but were unable to capitalise.

In a lively period after the break, there were opportunities at both ends and it took a moment of sheer persistence and skill at the top of the cricle by Richard Alexander to set up GB's second goal. After the ball rolled loose across the goalmouth, Jonty Clarke, celebrating his 100th international appearance, was left with a simple tap in to make it 2-1.

Never out of it and always dangerous on the break, India had Raghanuth to thank for keeping them in the contest when he fired in a low shot past goalkeeper Alistair McGregor's right to put his team back on terms.

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