World Cup is a mental game says Malaysian coach

Although the Malaysian team managed to clinch a victory over South Africa in yesterday’s match, coach K. Dharmaraj feels his team was too nervous and made a lot of mistakes.

“For the Malaysian team, the World Cup is not just about physical strength or strategies, but is a mental game altogether,” he said.

“It is a new experience for my boys. The World Cup is a big thing. It is about how mentally strong a team is to handle the pressure,” he added.

Talking about yesterday’s match against South Africa which they won 2-1, he said, “Right from the beginning the boys were under tremendous pressure and conceded early goal as well as penalty corners and a penalty stroke.

“They were nervous in the beginning of the match. The pressure was mounting on them and they made a lot of mistakes. It is a rich learning experience for them.”

The fact that Dharmaraj stands by his wards stand prove in each word he utters

Malaysia had played against New Zealand in their first match which they won 3-2. They next play against England today.

“We play to win. We want to finish at the top of the pool.”

There is no doubt the reigning Junior Asian Champions are the team to watch in the ongoing Hero Junior World Cup.