England embraced the dark arts to crush the Matildas in their own backyard

From the moment Keira Walsh, who is not renowned for her spiteful intent or even her physical strength, looked up and saw Australia’s star player Sam Kerr coming towards her in the opening minutes. The look was obvious, she knew who was coming to compete for the ball. Walsh’s eyes widened a little and then she made sure Kerr felt her studs and sent her to the turf. There was even a rugby style pat on the head. A faux act of apology, designed to send a message. There is more where that…