China enter cross-overs despite heavy loss to Australia after England beat Ireland

Ireland crashed out of the men's hockey World Cup after losing 2-3 to England, handing China a 'lucky' berth in the knockout stages despite being crushed 0-11 by two-time holders Australia here on Friday.

The last round Pool B engagements concluded.

Australia topped the pool with an all-win record after thrashing lowly China in a lop-sided affair and remained on course for a hat-trick of titles.

Australia accumulated nine points from three games and secured a direct entry into the quarterfinals while England finished second on four points and China (2 points) scrapped through by securing the third spot with two draws.

Despite the heavy loss, China made it to the cross-overs, courtesy England's win over Ireland.

If the England-Ireland match had ended in a draw, China would have been thrown out of the competition.

In the cross-overs, China will take on France on December 10, while England will face New Zealand the same day. World No. 7 England scored three field goals through David ...