HOCKEY star Beckie Herbert scored Great Britain’s only goal in a 3-1 away defeat to Spain yesterday.

The 22-year-old scored from close range in the third minute to give the young GB side an early lead – though the Spanish equalised on 16 minutes with a deflection into the top corner, before taking the lead with a penalty corner in overtime at the end of the first half.

Herbert played a commendable game and continued to create chances, coming close with another brave deflection, but the second half belonged to Spain. The home side piled pressure on Great Britain’s inexperienced team, many of whom have been given their first break into the national squad as early preparation for London 2012 selection.

GB’s goalkeeper Kirsty Mackay made a number of good saves from a succession of Spanish corners but was finally beaten in the 55th minute with a slip flick high into the GB net, gifting Spain their third goal.

• Picture: Beckie Herbert in action during the Melbourne Commonwealth Games in 2006