First Caps for Froese, Pereira

October 10, 2009

Adam Froese and Keegan Pereira both attained their first caps for Canada in game one of the 7 Test Super Series on Friday, and both players looked comfortable on the pitch.

“At the beginning, I was so nervous, but after a while, it got better,” said Pereira, who played about 35 minutes at the left wing position.  For him, the quickness of the international game was an adjustment.

“It was a lot faster than what I’m used to, but I thought it went well.”  No slouch in the speed department, Pereira had one exciting run midway through the first half.  Taking a pass from Connor Meakin, he bolted up the left side, drawing the defender with him, but nothing came of it.  Still, it was a glimpse of what he will offer the team for years to come. 

Anxious to prove that he belongs, upon being asked what his immediate ambition is for the next few games, Pereira replied, “I want to get my first goal.”

Froese, who travelled from Perth, Australia to participate in the series, played the entire match at right back, filling in for the absence of regular Scott Tupper.  Coming from Australia, where he plays his club matches, he was not overwhelmed by the speed and skill that India had to offer. 

Asked about the adjustment, he said, “Because I come from Australia, it’s kind of similar.” Certainly, he did not appear nervous, as he made a number of calm clearances in important situations.

Both of the first timers add depth and youth to the squad moving forward, and this is indicative of the continued improvement in the Canadian field hockey program.