Hockey: Heberle questions England's desire

The England coach Tricia Heberle criticised several of her players for lacking motivation when it comes to the less glamorous games in the World Cup in Australia.

A 54th-minute goal from Lucilla Wright rescued England against the United States here yesterday, the 1-0 win putting them back on course for their sixth-place lottery target, although they will still need at least a draw against Spain in their last pool match tomorrow, assuming Australia beat Japan in their last game.

"We got the three points against the USA but it was less than convincing," Heberle said. "There are no excuses for not being motivated when you represent your country.

"I can't accept that one day you can play top-class hockey against Australia because it is Australia and the next day come out, with three points on offer and people are flat. That is what we have at the moment and it is not good enough."