Hockey World Cup 2010 Spain Vs Pakistan

Pakistan's campaign back on track

       New Delhi: Patience was the key word for Pakistan ahead of their crucial match against Spain and the players from across the border showed it in plenty to take home full three points n Tuesday.

           After a far-form-impressive show against India in their opening encounter, Pakistan needed a win to stay alive in the competition. They achieved their objective with a 2-1 win against the World No.3, who suffered their first defeat of the tournament.

       It was not that Pakistan had a flawless performance, but their systematic approach was effective in breaking the solid Spanish midfield, which at one time was appearing impregnable. Pakistan's strategy was not to go all out, and the occasional inroads into the rival defense were mostly orchestrated from the left flank by Rehan Butt.

        Abdul Hasheem Khan's goal at the 30th minute pushed Spain on the back foot, who floundered on four penalty corners before sco0ring from their fifth and last, just five minutes before time. Pakistan upped the tempo and earned a penalty corner, their only one of the match, from which Sohail Abbas' powerful flick was deflected in by Hasheen.