KUALA LUMPUR – Despite losing a key player in the first quarter, nothing could stop the Germans from asserting their dominance in their opening group match win against South Africa at the FIH Men’s Junior World Cup.
Speaking to Scoop, German head coach Rein van Eijk said that he told his charges to remain calm and not lose focus after losing midfielder Jakob Brilla to an injury due to a collision with the match ball.
“The injury to Jakob happened at an unexpected moment in the match, and we were doing so well before his injury.
“Jakob’s injury demotivated my boys for a brief period, but I told my players to bounce back, and that’s why we were able to finish the task by clinching the important win.
“I’m so proud of my boys for following my instructions, and I’m also happy to see my attacker, Liam Holdermann, making a comeback after recovering from a suspected chest infection a couple of days ago and helping us win this match with his goal,” said Van Eijk.
The coach also commended South Africa’s fighting spirit throughout the match and hopes his team can use their opening-day victory as a stepping stone for more success in their upcoming games.
“It was not easy going against the African champions, as they kept fighting back throughout the game.
“I was surprised by their style of play, and it’s good that we played against such a tough opponent in our first match.
“This win gives us the confidence to push ourselves in the upcoming matches,” Van Eijk added.
Germany defeated South Africa 5-3 in the opening game at the National Hockey Stadium today.
In the Group B encounter, Germany took the lead early through Paul Glander’s penalty corner in the fifth minute of the match.
Germany’s other four goals were scored by Florian Sperling (10th), Liam (24th), Matteo Poljaric (41st), and Ben Hasbach (59th).
South Africa’s goals were scored by David Tshebi (24th), Jaydon Brooker (39th), and Hans Neethling (53rd).
The junior Honamas will take on France tomorrow in the second group match to battle for the top spot in Group B. – December 5, 2023