Commonwealth Games gold is within reach, believe Indian hockey players and coach

New Delhi, July 11 (IANS): After a disappointing ninth finish in the Hockey World Cup, the men's team is now eyeing the gold medal in the 2014 Commonwealth Games that would be held in Glasgow from July 23 to August 4.

India captain Sardar Singh and chief coach Terry Walsh are excited and looking forward to the challenge.

Walsh said the key objective at the Games will be to play world class hockey in every match.

"There are no benchmarks for the team and for me performing well and rising to the occasion is more important. We have worked on almost all areas of the game and are looking at finishing in the top 2. I feel the team should grow everyday to be able to compete better," said Walsh.

Sardar said the team showed good improvement and performance in the World Cup and was hoping for a good show at the Games.

"We have young players who are not very experienced but are performing very well. Last Commonwealth Games we bagged the silver and this time the aim is for the gold. Right now we are focusing on the first match and will progress through the tournament one by one. The team is fit and ready to give their best. As for the Asian Games the team will surely win and come out victorious," he said.