China's 3-0 loss to Japan in hockey preliminaries made Japan the only unbeaten team after Friday's competition.

It was a replay of their last meeting at the preliminary stages of the 2006 World Cup qualifier in Rome, Italy, where Japan beat China 3-0.

With the win, Japan netted ten points and ranked first on the pool standings. China was one point behind.

Japan took the lead in the 22nd minute when Kaori Chiba picked up teammate Sakae Morimoto's shot and made a free hit.

Three minutes later, it was Morimoto's turn to score and improved Japan's lead to 2-0.

In the 35th minute, Japan slotted in the third goal and maintained the lead until the end of the game, which was Japan's third victory over China in their last four meetings at the Asian Games.

Kim Chang-back, head coach of the Chinese team, said, "We have closely observed Japan's attacking route during the game."

The two teams are expected to meet again in the finals.

"Whoever will win in the finals depends on our preparation," added Kim.

(Xinhua News Agency December 9, 2006)