Coach Khawaja Muhammad Junaid has said that luck eluded Pakistan team in the final of Sultan Azlan Shah Cup International Hockey Tournament held in Ipoh (Malaysia) against Australia. "With a bit of luck Pakistan could have not only avenged their defeat but also won the championship," he told APP Wednesday on his return after taking part in the 6-nation competition.
"This was Pakistan's best match against the World Champions Australia in recent years which thrilled the spectators," he pointed out. He said team really showed a lot of fighting spirit in the final after easily losing 1-5 to Australia in the league rounds.
Asian Games champion Pakistan lost to Australia 3-2 in the extra-time golden goal after match was locked 2-2 in the regulation time. "Boys showed a lot of spirit and character in the final despite big defeat earlier. Aussies were surprised with Pakistan team's great fight," he said. He said youthful Syed Kashif Shah, Muhammad Rizwan and Muhammad Imran juniors produced an outstanding performance throughout the event.
"These youngsters got a good future ahead of them," he said. He also complimented seniors including Sohail Abbas and Rehan Butt. He said Sohail Abbas emerged as the top scorer of the event with six goals to his credit. Khawja Junaid said Pakistan also received the "Fair Play Trophy" for their excellent behaviour in the competition. He informed that Shakeel Abbasi won the best player of the tournament award. "All in all it was successful and satisfying event which revived Pakistan's hockey reputation," he said. He said joint effort of players and management took Pakistan to runners-up spot.
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