England march onto semis at Junior World Cup

ENGLAND have reached the last four of the Junior World Cup for the first time in their history thanks to a battling draw with Australia in Boston, USA.

Having chalked up back-to-back wins over India and the USA in the second group stage, England knew all they needed was a draw with Australia to advance to the semi-final stage.

Harriet Pearce gave England the perfect start with an eighth-minute penalty corner only for Danielle Schubach to equalise on 27 minutes.

The Australians, knowing only a win would see them through, cranked up the pressure in the second half but could not find a way through, ensuring England march on across the pond.

"I felt we controlled the majority of the game," said England assistant coach Martin Rodgers. "Although we were pressed quite hard, we played around the Australians very well. 

"It was very hot this afternoon and the girls worked their socks off, showing tremendous team spirit.  To reach the semi finals is a fantastic achievement."

Having won Pool E, England will now face the runners up in Pool F where Germany, China, Argentina and the Netherlands are all in with a shout of a top-two finish.