Manpreet Singh, the Indian captain, rued the failure to force an adequate number of penalty corners as a key factor in the defeat to Belgium in the Olympic semifinal on Tuesday.

“We entered their ‘D’ often but couldn’t force as many PCs as we would have liked to,” said the midfielder. “Our efforts as a team was okay, but we need to make use of our opportunities. You must use your chances against a top team. We didn’t and it told in the end.”

Pin-pointing when the team lost momentum, Manpreet cited the second and third quarters when Belgium took control.

India caved into Belgium pressure in the Q4.                                                              Photo: Seshadri Sukumar

He also commended the Red Lions for their solid defence especially in the third and fourth quarters.

As for the green card he was shown, Manpreet said he couldn’t understand why he drew the sanction. The Indian captain, however, looked ahead to the upcoming bronze medal clash with optimism.

“We’re trying to boost morale in the camp as we aim for the bronze against either Australia or Germany. That’s our focus now. “The seniors in the team including Sreejesh, myself and a few others will now try to ensure the younger players stay positive for the challenge.

“We will focus on what we need to change and already addressed the same in the team huddle after the semi-final,” Manpreet said.