Hockey World Cup 2018: Australia vs England - 5 Talking Points

#3 Matthew Swann's exceptional all-round performance

Matthew Swann receiving the Man of the Match award

Two times in the first quarter itself, Matthew Swann made near goal-saving interventions. There were a couple of full-length dives as Swann put his body on the line to complete his defensive duties.

The Australian defense sat deep in general and the 29-year-old was at the heart of it. There was absolutely nothing separating the two teams in the first half. However, The Kookaburras fared far better than England in Quarter 3 and ultimately went for the kill in the 4th and final quarter.

Swann had a huge hand in the 1st and 3rd goals. He had a marvelous game overall and was involved in many of the penetrations the Aussies made.

The Perth-born player displayed great skill with his stick to go past 3 defenders and get into a good position to cross it in a dangerous position in the 56th minute. Sloan tried to intercept and got a touch off the cutback from Swann. However, Corey Weyer -- waiting at the edge of the English circle -- was quick to latch on to the ball and fired it into the right corner of the goal to secure a 3-0 win for his side.

Matthew Swann went on to get the Player of the Match award as well for his all-round performance and vital contributions at both ends.