U.S. upsets Trinidad in Pan Am Cup field hockey opener

SANTIAGO, Chile - Canada and Argentina enjoyed big wins while the United States upset Trinidad and Tobago 4-3 on the first day of the Pan American Cup field hockey event Saturday.

Canada, which beat Argentina in a penalty shootout for the title two years ago, defeated Brazil 10-1. Gubbar Singh and Scott Tupper led the way with three goals apiece. Singh's hat trick came within a 22-minute span.

Canada was the Americas' only representative at the Beijing Olympics and finished 10th.

Argentina, the highest-ranked side at No. 9, beat inexperienced Uruguay 18-0.

Canada and Argentina are favoured to contest the final March 15. The winner qualifies for the 2010 World Cup in New Delhi.

Also, Chile, third in 2007, defeated Mexico 7-2.

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