Crutchley looks towards steady improvement after defeat of Trinidad & Tobago

England’s 6-1 defeat of Trinidad & Tobago in thier opening game of the Commonwealth Games men’s hockey tournament last night has left coach Bobby Crutchley frustrated with his side’s consistency.

The world’s fifth ranked side did, however cruise to victory against the Carribean nation ranked 29th.

Goals from Ashley Jackson, Iain Lewers and Mark Gleghorne – all from penalty corners – put them 3-0 up after 32 minutes. Mickell Pierre’s dribbling run and excellent finish reduced the deficit just a minute later. But an England victory was never in doubt as Nick Catlin, Phil Roper and Barry Middleton added further goals after the break.
 
England now have two days break before taking on Malaysia in their second pool B group game on Sunday at 9pm.

Crutchley said: ““We were a bit frustrated with the performance. There were good bits, but we were a bit slack with some of our passing and attacking play.

“Having said that I thought Trinidad & Tobago played well, they frustrated us and had a good game plan. There were certainly glimpses of some quality play for us across the 70 minutes and we will look to take that into the game against Malaysia on Sunday.

“Malaysia are a top country [ranked sixth at Glasgow 2014] and they’ve caused us trouble in the past at the Commonwealth Games. They will be quick on the counter attack and are a well organised side. For us the challenge is to keep improving through the tournament, whoever we play we are looking to put a performance down and execute our game plan.”

 

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