We have to be quick in breaking Australia’s defence chain: Captain Sardar Singh

27 June 2015, New Delhi: With two wins and a draw, the Indian Men Hockey team is looking a force to reckon with in the ongoing FINTRO Hockey World League Semi-Final 2015. While India played for a draw against Pakistan yesterday, what came out clearly was their consistent attacks on the opponents D and keeping the Pakistan defence busy for the entire game. For tomorrow’s match against Australia, India is aware that a win against them will help them top the Pool.

While, Australia has won all the three matches that they have played till now and is currently resting at the top of the pool with 9 points, India is seeded at the second position with 7 points, aiming to secure a win in the next match and reach atop the pool table.

Having showcased brilliant play in the recent clashes against Australia, India is all excited to meet the World No. 1 teamtomorrow to yet again showcase that they play their best hockey when they meet the Kookaburras. India last met Australia during the 2015 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh, Malaysia where India beat the Aussies 4-2 in the league match. Before that, India lost to Australia 1-2 in the Hero Men’s Champions Trophy 2014 in Bhubaneswar where both the teams were playing for the 3rd position.

Speaking on tomorrow’s all important clash, Captain Sardar Singh said “We have to keep the momentum going and work on our conversions. While, in our game against Pakistan we stuck to our plan what comes out clearly is that we have to capitalize on the opportunities. For tomorrow we have to ensure that we take the all important passes and score the goals. Australia has a very good defence and hence we have to be quick in breaking their defence chain”.

Commenting on the game for tomorrow, Chief Coach Paul van Ass said “The boys showcased good skilful hockey yesterday against Pakistan and for tomorrow they have to step it up. They have to create and convert the penalty corners. Also when they attack the D they have to capitalize on the chances that they create. What was missing yesterday was that we missed on the vital passes which would have helped us to score. The boys understand this and they know they have to work on this immediately.

India will face Australia in their fourth league match of the FINTRO Hockey World League Semi-Final 2015 at 19:30 IST on the 28th June 2015. The matches will be telecasted LIVE on Star Sports.