Monchengladbach: Two goals by Christopher Zeller set up a 2-1 win for Germany against a fighting England in the 11th FIH men's hockey World Cup on Sunday.
Zeller, the key man for the hosts, first converted a penalty corner in the 24th minute and then a penalty stroke in the 42nd after his attempt on goal struck defender Scott Cordon on the foot.
For England, Simon Mantell came good with a 34th minute penalty stroke after goalkeeper Ulrich Bulbolz brought down Richard Mantell.
Germany, who are the defending champions, increased their tally to seven points from three matches.
Germany, eager to record their second win in the championship, piled on pressure from the start, backed by a huge partisan crowd.
The English defence played well enough to hold the world champions at bay, but mistakes at crucial moments saw them concede goals.
It was England's second defeat following their 1-0 loss to Korea after having beaten India 3-2 in their opening league fixture.
In the other match South Korea dropped crucial points as they were held to a surprise 2-2 draw by South Africa.
The South Africans, twice in arrears, fought back to share honours with Korea who nearly paid the price for over-confidence, having won both their previous pool B matches.
For Korea, Jong Hyun Jang (21st) and Hyo Sik You (51st) scored while South Africa replied through Lungile Tsolekile (49th) and Wayne Madsen (59th).
Korea thus moved to seven points while the South Africans are on two after three matches.
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