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 With a raucous capacity crowd of close to 55,000 expected to fill BC
Place for Saturday's clash, Sampson put down an early marker urging
the game officials not to swayed or intimidated. He also said that
Canada had already benefited from some home cooking so far in the
tournament.
"The facts are that in the group stage Canada have been awarded more
fouls than their opponents in every game," Sampson told reporters.
"It is going to be difficult for the officials, a very intimidating
environment."
Canada has been called for 47 fouls and five yellow cards in its
four matches compared to the 55 fouls and four yellows awarded to
the opposition.
But Sampson told the Guardian newspaper that according to an
official the England team have on staff, Canada could have had four
times as many fouls.
Canadian coach John Herdman was not making any apologies for his
squad's rough-and-tumble style which at times has been compared to
the grinding, hard-hitting approach Canada employs on the ice hockey
rinks.
"We will be going out there as physical as we can and just doing
what Canadians do, seeing that Canadian grit," said Herdman. "We
will be the typical Canadian team you've seen over the last few
years. We know that Canada is known for its grit and its aggressive
DNA."
In getting to the last eight Canada did not lose a game but did not
win any style points either.
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The Canadian defense has been air-tight in conceding just one goal
in four contests, but their play on the attack has been uninspiring,
scoring just twice in regulation time.
Instead Canada has relied on its grit and home support to help make
up for some glaring shortcomings.
Sampson described Canada as the most aggressive side in the
tournament but made it clear England was prepared to give as good as
it gets.
"We're aware of what type of team we are going to face, we're aware
of the potential circumstances, whatever cards we've been dealt we
have to play our best," said Sampson.
"Canada are an aggressive team but so is my England team. We are
certainly willing to put our foot in when we need to."
(Editing by Cameron French)
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