Match No.13: 4th DEC 2018 AUSTRALIA Vs ENGLAND

Defending champions Australia posted its second successive victory today. Jake Whetton provided the much needed breather. Jake Whetton’s goal in the 47th minute opened the door for two more for Australia who were stretched over three quarters to prise open a stubborn English defence at the centre of which goalkeeper George Pinner stood tall.

However, the turning point appeared to be the greater intent of the defending champions to win the ball in the second half. The stats speak for themselves. At the end of the first half (2nd quarter) Australia led on circle entries (6-2), shots (4-3) and possession percentage (56-44). The Kookaburras stepped that up to 20-6 (circle entries), 10-4 (shots) despite a marginal loss of possession by the end of the match.

Match No.14: 4th DEC 2018 IRELAND Vs CHINA

A yellow-card infringement outside the circle by Ireland’s Jonathan Bell in the 43rd minute (third quarter) gained China their third penalty corner. Juo Gin scored to put the World Cup debutants ahead against the run of play. Ireland’s domination of the match was unquestionable.

Possession was 60-40 and circle entries numbered 24 from which eight shots on goal emanated. China had a mere four circle entries to three shots although they led the penalty corner count 3-2. So, instead of smelling victory, Gin’s goal left Ireland chasing the match. Alan Sothern equalized the very next minute but going into the fourth quarter, Ireland needed to be cautious while pressing for victory and were forced to settle for a draw. The Yellow card and the concurrent award of penalty corner is the turning point.