Hockey World Cup
Harry Martin scores the winner for England against Argentina
England reached the semi-finals of the Hockey World Cup in India with
a thrilling 3-2 victory over Argentina.
Gonzalo Peillat gave Argentina the lead from a penalty corner before
Barry Middleton fired in to equalise.
The influential Middleton then provided the aerial ball to set up Will
Calnan put England in front.
Peillat levelled from another penalty corner but, almost immediately,
Harry Martin struck the winner against the reigning Olympic champions.
England are in their third World Cup semi-final in a row and will now
play play Germany or Belgium in the last four on Saturday.
They had shaded possession with 53% of the game, while they had eight
shots compared to six from Argentina.
Liam Ansell was key to the win as he assisted England’s opening goal
and hit the post late on after a storming run.
He was given the man of the match and said: “I’m ecstatic.
“We knew that would be a tough match. They have got arguably the
number one corner threat so stopping them was crucial.
“But we knew if we waited for our opportunities, stopped them from
getting on the front foot and blocked their corners we’d have a good
chance.
“We just put in a stellar performance. As a squad we have got a few
young guys who have shone this tournament.
“We’re really positive as a squad and really looking forward to the next round.”
