South Africa fought back to beat Pakistan on a golden goal in an ill-tempered clash on Tuesday and finish fifth in the Commonwealth Games men's field hockey competition.

With the scores tied 2-2 at full time, Justin Reid scored the decisive goal in extra-time after Pakistan were reduced to 10 men following a red card to Muhammad Imran in the 58th minute.

Imran was punished for bringing down South Africa's Marvin Harper inside the 'D'.

It was veteran striker Rehann Butt who put Pakistan ahead, scoring field goals in the 28th and 52nd minutes.

Trailing 2-0, South Africa fought back to level the scores with Reid converting a penalty-corner in the 55th and Gareth Carr in the 62nd.

Stunned by the reverse, Pakistan tried to regroup but were let down by poor co-ordination among the players.

Reid made most of the extra-time, converting a penalty with a drag-flick in the 75th minute.