National Juniors Hockey Coach Confronts Reality
The National Juniors head coach I. Vikneswaran was left perplexed by his team’s performance in their recent match against India, where they surprisingly went 2-0 up before eventually succumbing 4-2 and suffering their third consecutive defeat in the 2024 Sultan of Johor Cup (SOJC) at the Johor Hockey Stadium in Taman Daya, Johor Bahru.
Clueless in the Second Half
According to Vikneswaran, his team seemed "clueless on what to do" after taking the early lead, allowing India to stage a remarkable comeback. "We wanted to ensure that doesn’t happen again and that’s why the boys stuck to the game plan (against India). The only thing is that after we had scored the two goals, then suddenly (it was like) ‘oops… what do we do now?’… we then let India back into the game by conceding two goals," he explained.
Reality Check for Young Tigers
The National Juniors’ 2024 SOJC campaign has been marked by three consecutive defeats, prompting Vikneswaran to admit that his team is facing a reality check. "I must admit the boys had a really bad game against Japan (losing 4-1)… we accept the defeat even though it’s a really tough pill to swallow. But I have to admit the boys played according to plan… they can only get better. We’re not afraid of any of these teams, it’s just that we need to do the right things… that’s the reality," he stressed.
Facing the Challenge
Despite their recent struggles, Vikneswaran is confident that his team is ready to face the challenge posed by Great Britain, their next opponent in the tournament. "We’re not afraid of any of these teams, it’s just that we need to do the right things… that’s the reality. And I think the boys are ready for the task."
Conclusion
The National Juniors’ performance so far in the 2024 SOJC has left much to be desired, but their head coach remains optimistic about their chances. With three consecutive defeats, it is imperative that the team regains its momentum and starts winning to stand a chance at the top spot in the six-team standings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the current standing of the National Juniors in the 2024 SOJC?
A: The National Juniors are currently at the bottom of the six-team standings with zero points.
Q: How many consecutive defeats has the National Juniors suffered in the 2024 SOJC?
A: Three
Q: What is the National Juniors’ next opponent in the tournament?
A: Great Britain
Q: How does the National Juniors’ head coach, I. Vikneswaran, plan to turn their fortunes around?
A: Vikneswaran aims to get the team to stick to the game plan and do the right things to reverse their fortunes.
Q: Is the National Juniors’ head coach optimistic about their chances in the remaining matches?
A: Yes, Vikneswaran remains confident that his team is ready to face any opponent and turn their fortunes around.