RAF Star Involved In England World Cup Defeat

Senior Aircraftman Liam Sanford during England's draw with China (Picture: England Hockey).

An RAF airman was on the losing side as England were defeated 3-0 by Australia at the Men's Hockey World Cup in India.

Senior Aircraftman Liam Sanford's England team drew 2-2 in their first game of the tournament, with a last minute goal by China denying them three points.

Three late goals from Australia's Jake Whetton, Blake Govers and Corey Weyer condemned a winless England side who go into a winner takes all match against Ireland tomorrow.

With a win, England will confirm their place in the crossover matches.

SAC Sanford has had an impressive international career winning a bronze medal at both the 2017 World League and EuroHockey Championships.

Those impressive performances helped him secure the RAF Sportsman of the Year award last year which he picked up at RAF Halton.