Thaindian News

New Delhi, Feb 19 (IANS) The Indian men’s hockey team Sunday registered its second big win in the 2012 London Olympic qualifiers here Sunday night but coach Michael Nobbs wants his team to peak at the right time.

As India thrashed Italy 8-1 in the second game, Nobbs said the team is yet to reach its peak. It was India’s second consecutive win in the tournament, having beaten Singapore 15-1 in the first match.

“This is not our peak. We have to peak at the right time. Two difficult matches are coming up against France and Poland. We have to take one match at a time,” the Australian said.

“Italy played better than yesterday. Our level was also too high. It is good that lot of players are scoring. We will continue the rotation policy,” he said.

India’s ace drag-flicker Sandeep Singh, who converted three penalty corners, said the team is in rhythm.

“We are trying out few things but don’t want I try everything now the team is in the rhythm in the last two matches. We are now planning for the big matches against France and Poland, against whom the defence will be tested,” he said.

Meanwhile, Indian women’s hockey coach C.R. Kumar was pleased with the team’s 4-1 thrashing of Canada.

“It was a good performance from the girls; 4-1 is a good score-line for the team. I was particularly happy with the professionalism of the girls,” said Kumar.

The coach, however, said there are a few areas in the defence where his team has to work hard.

“There are a few areas where we have to work hard. Our defenders are unnecessary forcing the ball and are losing possession. Some of the links were also unable to trap the ball properly,” he said.

Kumar said Sunday’s performance will boost the confidence of the girls as they gear up to face Poland, South Africa and Italy in their remaining three pool matches.

“I think against Canada our passing has been the best when you compare it with other teams. This performance will surely boost their confidence as we prepare for our remaining three pool matches,” he said.

Kumar said India have to play aggressively if they want to make the final.

“We have to play aggressively. We cannot be slow starters and be nervous. A team commits mistake when it is nervous. We have no room for errors,” he said.

Skipper Asunta Lakra said the team had put the unexpected draw against Ukraine behind.

“We don’t line in the past. The girls were determined not to commit mistakes and we did exactly that,” he said.