Ashley Jackson and Tom Carson both found the net as England’s men defeated Olympic champions Germany 2-1 to remain unbeaten at the Hockey World League Final in Delhi.
Having defeated hosts India 2-0 in their opening clash, England got off to the perfect start as Carson fired them in front after four minutes although Germany were level moments later.
Marco Miltkau equalised in the 11th minute but ten later Jackson pounced with his 50th goal for England for a 2-1 lead that they would hold on to for the remainder of the match.
England complete their pool against New Zealand on Monday and head coach Bobby Crutchley believes his team will improve the further they go into the World League Final.
“It was nice to get a win, especially against a team as strong as Germany. We defended well throughout the game and kept Germany at bay, but we had to defend a bit too much for my liking,” said Crutchley.
“When the pressure came on us and they stepped up we just weren’t quite strong enough on the ball. Having said that, when we did come away with it I thought we looked a consistent threat on the counter-attack and that secured the three points for us.
“We kept getting our shape wrong at times, but that’s only because we lack a bit of match practice and I know that will improve as the tournament goes on.
“I’d like us to retain the ball under pressure and push forward more. I know the team is capable of sustaining longer periods of attacking play and it’s a case of us looking to get a little bit better every game.”
© Sportsbeat 2014