Australia are hockey's golden girls

Another home win as Australia win the hockey

Australia 3-1 Argentina

Australia underlined their reputation as the greatest women's hockey side in history as they claimed their third gold medal in four Olympic Games with a 3-1 win over Argentina.

Rechelle Hakews, Claire Mitchell-Taverner and Nikki Hudson were inspirational as the Australians added the titles won in Seoul in 1998 and Atlanta four years ago.

Australia dominated the final from the outset and were in front inside 10 minutes through Alyson Annan.

The Dutch claimed bronze with victory over Spain

Juliet Haslam extended the lead in the 26th minute before a penalty corner converted by Jenny Morris three minutes into the second half put the result beyond doubt.

Argentina did score a consolation goal through Vanina Oneto on 44 minutes, but that was never going to be enough to unsettle the host nation.

The victory marked a perfect send-off for coach Ric Charles, who is standing down after an unprecedented spell of success.

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Netherlands 2-0 Spain

The Netherlands survived losing two key playes to take the bronze medal with victory over Spain.

Margje Teeuwen was forced out with a twisted ankle and the Dutch also lost Fleur van de Kieft to a yellow card, yet they remained in control throughout the game.

Ageeth Boomgaardt got the Dutch off to a flying start, converting from a 10th-minute penalty corner after good work from Mijntje Donners.

Nuria Moreno missed a chance to level on 43 minutes when she fired wide when well place and Spain were punished 12 minutes later when Macha van der Vaart and Minke Smabers combined to set up captain Carol Thate for the decisive second goal.

The Netherlands have now won one gold and three bronzes since making their Olympic debut in 1984.