Improved show on India’s mind

Following a 1- 1 draw in the opening game, India will look to earn their first win when they take on japan in the second game of the four- match test series in Bhubaneshwar, on Tuesday.

India were rusty in the field on Sunday, and skipper Sardar Singh will hope that his team put up a better show on the morrow.

The Japanese are adept at long passes and also boast of a strong midfield. India, who were found wanting in the attack in their previous game, know they will have to come better on Tuesday.

“We didn’t play very good yesterday and faced strong challenges from the Japan side. As I told you earlier, don’t see the ranking, they are a very good Asian team, who play the European style speedy hockey,” chief coach Paul van Ass said on the day.

“We didn’t play as per our expectations in the first half, that’s why we conced- ed a goal. But we came back after the half- time and played well.

“The first match was like testing each other’s strength and we now know the Japanese better.

“We are working harder on our defence side and in the next match, we will step on the field with better strategies against the opponents.”

Japan coach Keonwook Kang said the team were working on their attack.

“Though we drew the match yesterday, we are not happy with our performance and we need to improve in various areas.

“We have a good defence but we need to work harder on attacking. We have a better understanding of Indian players now and we will make strategies around their style.”