Australia loss taught us a useful lesson

DANNY KERRY says capitulation to Australia in the pool stages paved the way for England’s superb run to the World Cup semi-finals.

England started the tournament slowly, drawing 2-2 with China then losing 3-0 to the powerful defending champions before rescuing their campaign with three consecutive wins.

Wednesday’s thrilling 3-2 quarter-final victory over Olympic champions Argentina set up a clash with Belgium tomorrow for a place in the final and coach Kerry, above, said: “If we hadn’t had the hard lesson from the Australia game, we wouldn’t have grown.

“Sometimes, ironically, a loss can really help you.”

Kerry joined the men in September after spending 13 years with the women’s side, and joked: “It’s a lot quieter coaching the men.

“I’ve had 11 weeks with the team, but we’ve only scratched the surface. We’re fighting a lot of instincts from the very different way we have played before.” And despite England showing title credentials, Kerry believes his youthful players are still two years away from properly adapting to the international scene.

“We are at the beginning of everything and we have some exciting talent,” he said.

“It’s going to take a few years for the young, new players to really understand the game.”

Belgium, the Olympic silver medallists, defeated Germany 2-1 in a tight encounter to reach their first semi-final.

The match was a technical affair but Belgium can expect a more energetic contest against Kerry’s team.

“England will be more physical,” said Belgium player Nicolas De Kerpel. “We haven’t seen any of their games yet but we’ll be ready,”

The semi-finals will involve three European sides after Holland knocked out hosts India to secure a last-four showdown with Australia.