Unbeaten England upbeat about facing New Zealand

New Delhi, Jan 16 (IANS) An unbeaten England are confident and upbeat about their semi-final clash against New Zealand at the Hockey World League Final here Friday.

The Englishmen were seen working hard in a practice session at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium Thursday, after which coach Bobby Crutchley spoke to the media.

“The boys have managed to get the desired results by not losing a single game till now. This is the result of sheer hard work that the team has put in over the months and managing to keep their cool and sticking to the basics. The key was also to convert the penalty corner chances that the team got, which helped in keeping an edge over opponents at all times,” said Cructchley.

“Individually, we have been working on some players which has paid off. We are looking forward to our semi-final clash against New Zealand and I am confident the team will again give a good show and reach the final,” added the coach, who has led his team to four consecutive victories in the tournament.

Skipper Barry Middleton is also very happy with the performance of his boys, especially Ashley Jackson and Tom Carson, both of whom have scored three goals in the tournament.

“I am yet to come over this feeling of how we managed to stay undefeated so far. It’s a very good feeling. The team is not losing its focus and is looking forward to New Zealand in the semis. In our last match here, we beat them and hoping we do it again tomorrow. One positive is that players like Ashley and Tom are in great form,” said Middleton.