Hockey World Cup 2018: Semifinal - Australia vs Netherlands - 3 talking points 

#2 Blaak plays an inspired game between the posts

A goalkeeper who made all the difference

The Dutch would have known for certain that the frequency of their attacks up front would leave gaps open which the Aussie strikers could then exploit.

Sure enough, the Aussies were presented with several opportunities to break forward and penetrated the Dutch circle 26 times. Yet, the only reason that the defending champions could score only twice, was that Pirmin Blaak in the Dutch goal had an incredible match, pulling off some seemingly-impossible saves that frustrated the Aussie strikers no end.

Blaak was responsible for eight saves and did not hesitate to leave his mark to narrow the angles down when required. Blake Govers had his ferocious drag-flicks covered by the imposing frame of Blaak who stood tall under the post and was virtually unbeatable on the day.

The 30-year-old from Rotterdam was rewarded with a well-deserved Player of the Match award and the Dutch will know for certain that one big reason why they - and not Australia will play the second match tonight is because of Blaak's heroics under the bar.