Our defence didn’t do well, admits Fulton

Head coach Craig Fulton lamented India’s missed opportunities and poor defensive display in the 2-4 reverse against England in its hockey World Cup match here on Monday.

England’s four strikes took the number of goals conceded by India to 44 in 18 games this year.

“The first half was good, but we got caught on the counter-attack [Nicholas Bandurak’s goal]. In the third quarter, we had some big moments but didn’t take them.

Playing like a No. 3

“Unfortunately, our defence didn’t do well. England played like a World No. 3,” said Fulton.

Midfielder Manpreet Singh echoed the coach’s sentiment.

“It is important to have a strong defence when you play against a good team. And it is also important that whenever you get an opportunity, you convert it into a goal,” said Manpreet.

India now needs a win against Pakistan on August 19 (Wednesday) to progress to the second round.

“The boys will be motivated as we need to come out firing against Pakistan. We have to be better on the ball in the final third and need to show composure,” said Fulton.