Pakistan a paradox: Charlesworth
Pakistan are a paradox who can lose to unheralded teams and upset top sides in their day, feels legendary hockey player and current Australian coach Ric Charlesworth.
Australia came back from one-goal down and scored a late winner in their 2-1 win over Pakistan and Charlesworth said he was not surprised by Pakistan’s performance as they are always a tough team to beat.
“When I analyse the statistics of the Pool B, I noticed that Pakistan has done very well. They had even beaten a strong Spain. But it is a paradox they can lose to a weak team and can do really well against a top side,” Charlesworth said after the match.
“I know they lost to South Africa but that was due to 15 minutes of madness. I think Pakistan will lose once in 20 matches to South Africa. Against India two penalty corner shots hit the crossbar and just three centimetres below would have been goals,” the Australian said.
Charlesworth conceded the match could have been a draw but said his team were the dominant side.
“They scored the first goal and that lifted their game. But in the whole match, Pakistan were able to enter our striking circle just 12 or so times while we had more than 25. But we have to do more in the semifinals,” he said.
He said there was no preference which side Pool A toppers Australia want to face in the semifinals.