Hockey World Cup 2018: 3 reasons why Australia won against England

#2 Superior fitness allows Australia to raise intensity progressively

Jake Whetton's 47th minute strike got the Australian engine up and running

Since the advent of the 60-minute format, many hockey observers wondered if the presence of adequate breaks would help the less athletic teams take on the fittest of sides. On the contrary, the four-quarter format has helped the top teams harness their on-field intensity in a progressive way.

Having appeared on level terms with England at the half-way break, the first signs of Australia breaking away came in the third quarter. Pushing the men forward, the Kookaburras also played the high press game. In doing so, they were quicker on turnovers and consequently piled pressure on the opposition back-line.

As the England players' energy appeared to tone down a notch, Australia picked up pace during the last two quarters. Their passing had more intent and the attackers managed to pierce the circle with ease. The major reason behind the shift in momentum was the Kookaburras' superior and possibly unmatched fitness levels.