England Hockey have suffered a thumping 8-0 loss against The Netherlands in the semi-final of the EuroHockey championships.

England held their composure in the first half with the Dutch only going one goal ahead, but from then on seven goals were conceded in 40 minutes.

The first goal came from Laurien Leurink who launched home the ball from a penalty corner. This was shortly followed by Lidewij Welten who led the Dutch in full flow from then onwards.

World No 1 goalkeeper Maddie Hinch made countless saves throughout but Caia van Maasakker made it 3-0 with a fast drag flick. Marleos Keetels and Xan de Waard added another two goals to the scoresheet as the Dutch continued to dominate.

England needed to win the tournament outright to achieve automatic qualification for Tokyo 2020 but will now play in a two-legged tie at home late autumn.

England were unable to fight back once the Dutch got going. The orange and black side forced the English defence to crumble as the Dutch forwards became unstoppable entering the attacking third.

The Netherlands are looking to secure their 18th European title after facing Spain or Germany in the final this Sunday.

England will play in the bronze medal match on Sunday at 12.20.