The defeat ended Pakistan’s chances of reaching tomorrow’s final which will now be contested between England and hosts Australia. Pakistan will, meanwhile, take on India today in an inconsequential match.
Earlier, things looked promising for Pakistan when it managed to take the lead through Abdul Haseem. However, the Greenshirts conceded the lead with a goal from Barry Middleton but Umer Bhutta soon made it 2-1 in the dying moments of the first half. The second half saw England rallying as they scored three goals including Nick Catlin’s brace to clinch a convincing win. In the other match of the day, Australia edged out India 4-3.
PHF president revises
Irfan’s ban
Meanwhile, Pakistan Hockey Federation’s (PHF) President Qasim Zia has reduced Mohammad Irfan’s six-month ban to 30 days after the seasoned defender apologised for a breach of discipline.
The PHF’s disciplinary committee had handed the ban to the Olympian earlier this month along with a Rs100,000 fine for violating the code of conduct during a training camp for the Champions Trophy. Irfan had gone on a two-day leave but failed to report back to camp on time.
“I am thankful to the PHF president for reducing my ban,” Irfan told The Express Tribune. “I have assured him that I’ll be careful in the future.”
Published in The Express Tribune, November 24th, 2012.
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The problem was simple to see, Pakistan off the ball movement was not there. expecting the ball to come to them when there were two defenders in front of them was just novice approch.. This ius a new group with new couches and thinking tanks...they need to run around and create openings..India played alot better and almost won if it wasn't for the excellent goal by the aussies in the last 10 mins.. Dont see Pakistan winning todays game either