The stakes are high during this evenings game between the Dutch ladies and South Korea. Max Caldas’ team will want to make a statement after yesterday’s unexpected 1-1 draw with Japan.
The Japanese woman looked to miss out on any points until 11 minutes before the end of the game. “Our tempo was to low. It wasn’t because we didn’t want to win, we just couldn’t. We made a couple of mistakes in defence. You must play with speed against Asian teams, that is the way to defeat them” according to Max Caldas.
The home team created many chances but was untidy in the finishing part. It was Sabine Mol’s shot on goal seven minutes before the half time whistle which landed on a defenders foot, resulting in a penalty stroke. Maartje Paumen did what she had to do from the spot and fired the ball in the net. 1-0.
Penalty Corner
In the second half it was the Dutch ladies again creating the chances, even though Japan stepped up the pressure. Max Caldas won’t be happy with his team winning 6 corners but scoring 0.
Where the Dutch ladies forgot to ‘kill’ the game, the Japanese woman forced an equaliser. Akane Shibata finding a gap under goal keeper Sombroek. Even a circle penetration of 31 times couldn’t result in more than a draw for the favourites at this year’s Rabobank Hockey World League.
After day one Holland find themselves tied for second with Japan. South Korea go into day 2 top of the group after a difficult 2-1 win over Chilli.