IPOH – Pakistan head coach Roelant Oltmans has made it clear that he’s ready to use any tactic to ensure Pakistan emerges triumphant in this year’s Sultan Azlan Shah Cup.
Oltmans’ response came after his side’s dramatic comeback against defending champions Malaysia at the Azlan Shah Stadium in Ipoh last night.
They defeated their world number 13 opponents 5-4, with his charges defending against the Speedy Tigers’ attacks with their physical prowess throughout the game.
“We had to play defensively against Malaysia as we didn’t have a choice. Many of my players were using their bodies to defend against our opponents’ shots, and this is because they were stubborn and kept launching vicious attacks throughout the game.
“They were quicker than us, so this is the best way we can try to stop them from scoring goals against us.
“Our tactics of using our players as a shield worked, and I’m ready to use the same tactic again or any tactic that will make us win a match and keep us on track to clinch the prestigious title,” said Oltmans in a post-match conference yesterday.
At the same time, Oltmans also hoped that his forward, Sulman Razzaq, would be free from any serious injury after the 28-year-old, making his 18th appearance for his country, received a severe knock on his knee with the matchball last night.
“He has been hit really hard on his knee and several parts of his body and I’m not sure about his condition right now.
“The injury was bad, and that’s the reason why we had to take him off the field. He had an unlucky game today (last night) .
“But he’s a strong boy, and I’m sure he wants to play tomorrow (today). If it’s possible without any long-term injury, Sulman will definitely play in the next match,” Oltmans added.
Under the guidance of the experienced Dutchman, Pakistan will face South Korea in their second fixture of the invitational tournament.
Pakistan, known as the “Flying Green Horses” by their fans, has made 15 appearances in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup and won the tournament thrice (1999, 2000, and 2003) since its inception in 1983.
The team arrived for the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup on April 27 from Islamabad and had only three days to train for the tournament. – May 5, 2024