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England

By Carl Markham, PA Sport


England?s men beat Switzerland 4-2 today to set up a crunch clash against Poland which will decide who goes through to the European Nations Cup semi-finals in Barcelona.

The victory was by no means routine but at this stage of the tournament what is essential is picking up three points ? and that will be the crucial challenge in tomorrow?s clash against the Poles.

England demonstrated good control in the first period and their patience was rewarded in the 22nd minute when Surbiton teenager Ben Hawes converted a penalty stroke.

Six minutes before half-time Loughborough?s Jerome Goudie followed up a penalty corner rebound to put England into a comfortable half-time lead.

Thierry Grandchamp?s 41st-minute penalty corner reduced the arrears but Reading midfielder Mark Pearn restored the two-goal cushion seconds later.

However, when Xavier Penny made it 3-2 with 25 minutes still remaining England got the jitters and could easily have folded.

But five minutes from time Cannock?s 19-year-old rising star Barry Middleton settled the nerves ? for now.

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