Canada warms up for Men’s World Cup
February 26, 2010
Team Canada arrived early in the morning on the 23rd of February for final preparations for the Hero Hockey FIH World Cup. India is the home of hockey and the stage for the event could not be grander. Team was transported to the heart of the city where they will be staying and competing within walking distance of the Indian Parliament Buildings and Humayun’s Tomb, a World Heritage Site.
On their second day in Delhi, the men played a warm-up match against world number 2 ranked Australia just 30 hours after landing. After a 0-4 loss, head coach Alan Brahmst said, "This was a good warm-up to familiarize us with the tournament setup and the field of play. Australia is one of the perceived favourites to win to the World Cup".
Yesterday Canada played their second warm-up match against Pakistan with resulted in a 1-1 draw with veteran Rob Short scoring on a penalty corner option for the red and white. Brahmst commented "This was a fair effort by what felt like a more settled team” Coach Brahmst is confident that the team will be ready to go for their important opener against New Zealand on Monday.
Canadian Captain Ken Pereira commenting on the venue said, "This is a great stadium, probably the biggest I have ever played in, and it’s going to be insane once we get going.".
The ongoing security issues surrounding the World Cup were a primary concern for the Canadian team upon landing in Delhi. The FIH and Delhi Police have augmented security procedures in direct response to Canadian team queries. They also arranged a detailed security briefing for all team management.
Field Hockey Canada representative Hari Kant said, "The Delhi Police provided all teams a security briefing that outlined the comprehensive security plans that are in place, and they were able to address the specific concerns of all the teams. I feel confident that the players can concentrate on playing hockey knowing that adequate security is being provided."
Canada’s has a busy schedule in the remaining 3 days before their tournament begins. The players will enjoy a short break for a reception at the Canadian High Commission in Delhi on Saturday evening.
