He stands like ramrod. Eyes sparkling. Even as he sweeps away beads of sweat, it doesn’t give an idea he has just played six minutes of game, the body must aching. No. He was fresh, he was patient as well. The match may be against Indonesia, whom his team crushed for 15 goals, but the Koreans did not relax all through while getting those goals. Perhaps to match India’s tally that was two more than what the Koreans could ultimately manage, they tried very hard to add the last five goals as the match was closing in on.
Those tries, sprints and shrills were easily forgotton as Man Jae Jung prepares for the match of the Pool, obviously against defending champions India.
That the match is being awaited with awe may be gleanced from the fact that he becomes serious when questions were asked on India, eyebrows narrowing, body slightly bending, and keen ears to your voice.
This was after initial discussion went on sterotypes. “That is going to be an important match”. We have some days left four us to prepare, we will prepare well for the important match.”
But when pointed question was asked, he proportionatley became serious in response. Even given discount he faced for replying in English, it took more time now for answer.
India is a good team, we are also good.
When asked about Indian strength of penalty corner conversion, he could take the names Rupinder Pal Singh and Harmanpreet Singh. “They are good, we will defend well if we give away penalty corners’.
When reminded him of recent Korea’s loses to India in HWL, Asia Cup, Asian Champions Trophy, he was not perturbed.
“We are definitely not down. In this tournament we are strong”, Pat came reply.
Before signing off, he said solid: “You will see here, we are a strong team’.
The midfielder undoubtedly sends a message to Indians who seem to be under the sun after two great victories.
If there is a man who will make the difference between losing and winning team, that will be this professional with an MNC.