Team Great Britain men's hockey team's attempts to claim their first Olympic medal since 1988 ended in failure after defeat to Australia in the bronze medal final.

Simon Orchard gave Australia a deserved lead after 17 minutes, before Britain drew level as Iain Lewers struck home from a tight angle.

But the pre-tournaments secured the bronze with two second half goals from Jamie Dwyer and Keiran Govers.

GB v Australia
Govers hit home a decisive third.

Great Britain's men were looking to follow in the footsteps of their female counterparts by bouncing back from a disappointing semi-final defeat to secure a bronze medal, while Australia were looking for a consolation after failing to convert their dominance into an appearance in the gold medal final.

The two teams played out a thrilling 3-3 draw in the pool stage, but came into the contest off the back of defeats to Netherlands and Germany, contributing to a tight opening at the Riverbank Arena.

The world No.1 ranked side Australia opened the scoring after 17 minutes when Orchard found space at the top of the penalty area, following Dwyer's pass, to smash home beyond James Fair.

GB held out through the remainder of the first half and were rewarded for their resilience when from a nicely worked penalty corner Ashley Jackson found original taker Lewers to level the scores.

Britain retained parity for less than 20 minutes before the pre-tournament favourites hit the front for a second time as Dwyer scored from close range after Fair had saved the initial penalty corner

And their lead was doubled with 13 minutes remaining when Govers volleyed home after Fair had denied Dwyer's goal bound effort.

A late onslaught from Great Britain however never materialised as they were left empty handed as Australia battled their way to bronze.

Gold Germany Australia London