Great Britain slumped to a second successive defeat after the Argentina captain, Karina Masotta, scored the only goal of the match to inspire her team to a narrow victory at the State Sports Centre in Sydney on Monday.

Masotta steered home the winner after goalkeeper Hilary Rose had parried a fierce drive from Vanina Oneto but was unable to control the ball as it bounced awkwardly.

In a disappointing display by Britain, they rarely threatened Argentina's goal and only managed two shots on target in the whole contest.

Unable to compete with the close dribbling skills of their opponents, they failed to establish control as the lively Argentinians dominated the encounter.

Rose kept her side in the game with two outstanding saves from Oneto, and when Argentina were reduced to 10 players midway through the second half, GB were unable to capitalise.

Showing the effects of a second game in twenty four hours following their tough encounter against Australia on Sunday, Britain tired visibly in the closing stages, repeatedly fouling their opponents and conceding possession.

Their miserable evening was completed when defender Kate Walsh was temporarily suspended with six minutes left and she played no further part in the game.