Australia down Spain at hockey World Cup

HAGUE: Australia's men strolled to a 3-0 win over Spain at the hockey World Cup in The Hague on Monday, with coach Ric Charlesworth unhappy that his side didn't score more.

The Spaniards drew their opening game with England but were no match for the Australians, who seized the momentum early on thanks to Tim Deavin sliding in the opening goal after only two minutes.

Mark Knowles flicked in a penalty after Spain committed an offence while defending a penalty corner, and another short corner was finished by Kieran Govers to make it 3-0 on the stroke of half time.

In between goals two and three Knowles rattled the bar as Australia overwhelmed Spain with a wonderful display of fast, attacking hockey.

The Kookaburras moved onto six points at the top of Pool A, with their next match against European silver medallists Belgium on Thursday. (AP)