Hockey World Cup 2018: England vs Ireland - 3 Talking Points

#1 Liam Ansell makes all the difference up front

Ansell won the Player of the Match award

The Irish forward-line lacked punch for the most part and failed to make their ball possession count while the English strikers continued to create chances and looked positively dangerous throughout the course of the match.

Liam Ansell, who flew in a last-minute replacement for Sam Ward has ensured by his exploits that England has not been in any way deficient as a result of the latter's absence.

Ansell was the livewire for Kerry's side, without any doubt whatsoever, probing the Irish defence with his searing runs and delivering vital through balls.

As a matter of fact, Ansell did not spend a great deal of time out in the center but was by far the most visible player and made every minute on the pitch count for his team.

The tomahawk which beat David Harte came at a vital time, and for the attempts on goal, and the PCs and chances he helped to create, the England camp need to thank Liam Ansell and hope that the 25-year-old striker continues to wreak havoc against the New Zealand Black Sticks in Monday's crossover.

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