First task is achieved: Rajinder

Coach Rajinder Singh was all smiles on Friday afternoon after his boys qualified for the second round in the men's junior World Cup hockey tournament, in Hobart, Australia.

The former India World Cupper was all the more pleased because his team came up with an impressive showing while beating Spain 3-0 in their concluding Pool C match, which was expected to be tough considering the Spaniards' thumping victories over Canada and Scotland, the other teams in the pool.

"I am happy; our first task is achieved. Now we enter the tough stage of competing with the best teams," he said

Reflecting on the match against Spain, he said converting the chances that came India's way was the difference.

"We made the best of our chances while the Spaniards failed," he said.

''We have achieved our first aim of topping the poll; now we enter the tough stage of competing with the best teams,'' he added.

Rajinder felt individual skills and mental strengths will be the key in the next stage.

"Now we will be meeting better teams. It is here the boys' skills and mental strengths will play a major part if we have to reach the last four, which is out next target," he said.

On the injury full-back Jugraj Singh sustained during the match against Spain, Rajinder informed that it is not serious.

"There is nothing to worry about; it is not severe, but he will be checked by a doctor. With a day's rest in between the next match, he should be able to recover," he said.

Skipper Gagan Ajit Singh expressed happiness with his personal form after scoring his first goal in the tournament.

"I was getting a little worried as I had not scored, but I hope this goal enables me to get more in the tougher matches ahead," he said.

Complete Coverage: 7th Junior Men's World Cup 2001