Giving my best in penalty-corners, says Abbas

Pakistan penalty corner specialist keen on improving.

KARACHI: The pressure is mounting on Sohail Abbas – not just to lead Pakistan to a respectable finish, perhaps a podim, but also to convert penalty-corners.

He said he was trying his best to score goals through his powerful drag flicks despite failing to convert either of the short corners Pakistan received in their opening match against Spain.

Legendary Olympians Islahuddin and Samiullah have termed Abbas’ conversation rate crucial in the team’s campaign and the captain said he was regaining his rhythm and was giving his best.

“I am giving my best,” said Abbas. “I put on an improved show against Spain and was on target both times. I was just unlucky as their goal-keeper was outstanding.”

Pakistan aim for a win against Argentina

Meanwhile, spurred on by an encouraging draw against the Spaniards, Pakistan are aiming to beat Argentina today with an eye on the semi-finals.

The two teams have had contrasting starts to their Olympic campaigns with the Greenshirts holding their higher-ranked opponents 1-1, while Argentina lost to hosts Great Britain 4-1.

“We watched Argentina’s match closely,” Pakistan coach Khawaja Junaid told The Express Tribune from London. “We stayed at the venue so that we could see their strengths and weaknesses.

“We’ve formed a plan and hopefully the players will execute it well against Argentina. They are a good side and we’ll have to be on our toes to dominate them.”

Pakistan’s matches against Argentina and South Africa are being considered comparatively easy fixtures for the team as they will have to meet favourites Australia and Great Britain in their Pool A games.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 1^st, 2012.