South Africa's Zulu admits missed chances in 4-1 Hockey World Cup loss

Onthatile Zulu has conceded that South Africa failed to make their attacking opportunities count in their 4-1 defeat by India at the Hockey World Cup. The result left the team fourth in Pool D after two matches, following an earlier 4-0 loss to England.

South Africa entered the India match looking for a response to their opening defeat, but they were unable to turn their chances in the shooting circle into goals. India were more clinical when they reached the attacking area and built a decisive advantage before the late South African reply.

Zulu acknowledged that the defeat was particularly frustrating because South Africa created opportunities of their own. She said the team needed to improve its finishing and take greater advantage of its pace and counter-attacking approach when it gets forward.

South Africa’s only goal arrived in the 55th minute from a penalty corner. Hannah Pearce’s drag flick changed direction off an Indian defender, with Kayla de Waal reacting quickly to score from close range.

Despite the scoreline, Zulu felt the performance included encouraging attacking moments. She rejected the idea that South Africa spent the match only defending, pointing to the chances created and the individual quality shown during the contest.

The result leaves South Africa needing a response in their final Pool D fixture against China on Thursday, 20 August at 09h30. England, India, China and South Africa make up the group, with the South Africans now having no margin for another defeat in their remaining pool match.