CHARLOTTE Hartley's dream of a Commonwealth gold medal was shattered by the Australians this morning.

England's bid for the women's hockey final ended when they lost 3-0 to the tournament favourites in the semi-final at the State Hockey Centre in Melbourne.

Goals from Australia's Kate Hollywood, Emily Halliday and Suzane Faulkner put paid to Team England's hopes - but Hartley, 19, can still bring a medal back home to Burnley.

England will play either New Zealand or India in a play-off for the bronze medal on Saturday morning.

And that would still represent a super tournament for the girl from Cliviger, who is one of the youngest members of the squad, and who is taking part in her first Games.

For captain Kate Walsh winning her 150th international cap the defeat was hard to take.

"It was a really tough game," she said. "But I am really pleased with the girls, they gave everything. We are just not quite good enough.

"We gave it our all. I can't ask for any more.

"The bronze medal match is massive. We've worked so hard and had so much support, we are not going home empty-handed."

England head coach Danny Kerry said: "In the first half I was in heaven and felt we controlled the game. We just lack experience and nouse to make it count. At this level it's crucial if you don't put your chances away.

"Credit to the Australians, they ground out their victory.

"Our target was to reach the final.

"We could play more defensively but it wouldn't give us the long-term opportunity for medals.

"Even against good opposition we have created chances. We just need to be able to put them away."