Our victory against Pakistan at home was quite entertaining. Our team deserved the praise, as they came good when needed most. I already indicated that Tushar Khandker should be utilized in a better way than what was against the opener. Introduction of Tushar in the second half did the wonders for us. Tushar is fast, being young take his chances well. I wish coach Rajinder learnt his lessons in the first game defeat, and effectively utilized his resources well in the match against Pakistan.
Down 2 still India finished on winning note, all goals coming in the second half. The team showed enormous confidence and resilence. These two factors are vital for winning teams, and we showed it not too late.
I entertain a feeling that Sandeep Singh is under-performing under other coaches than with Junior India coach Harendera Singh. The present coach should work out the things and make full use of Sandeep Sigh. With two goals in vital moments his prowess in the penalty corners saved India. This would have given him enormous confidence and I only hope he will only improve now on. He is young, showing improvement in tackling and recovery. That is, he is becoming an all rounder and an important factor in our teams’ destiny. This is good some one in the mould of Jugrag is emerging in an otherwise blank horizon. His low drag flick that gave us three points was great to watch.
India and Pakistan played attacking hockey, and in such situations the defence becomes weak. Almost a decade now, the Pakistan defence is known for its brittleness and easily breaks up. As a result, they conceded too many penalty corners.
Indian goalkeeping is not showing upto the mark. Coach Rajinder Jr. should not persist with Adrian D’ Souza alone, but give Chetri also enough changes. Chetri really played well against Pakistan.
Like us, Australia also plays 5-3-2-1 formation, and are known for playing the game in a positive way. Unlike Spain or Netherlands, they play creative hockey. We are also good at attacking game. Therefore, I anticipate a good hockey today (Tuesday). Though Australia is highly rated, we need not worry beyond a point. We have enough in it we can draw them or even go for the killing. Australia’s two inside forwards and the center-half are very dangerous. We should block them in order to break their rhythmic, free flowing style.
Secondly, Australians are adept at positioning well inside the striking circle. That’s why we saw in their side many, many good strikers. Because of good positioning sense, they convert not only half chances into full, but also pick of rebounds and shoot home. Therefore, our attackers have to be extra cautious.
Thirdly, their counterattacks. They are surely far better in terms of physical strength and fitness. That gives them advantage in counter attack situations. Indian should exercise caution and avoid them scoring in counter attacks using overcrowding tactics. Their right flank at any cost had to be blunted. Our left-half Ignace Tirkey therefore has a tough job on hand.