Hockey opener goes downhill as Germany thrash Pakistan

Internationally starved Pakistan got the first taste of European hockey in almost two years as Germany floored the green shirts by 6-1 in the opening match played in Monchengladbach on Tuesday.

Pakistan scored their lone goal through Ghazanfar Ali in the 47th minute whereas, Germany scored four goals on penalty corners and were also seen dominating the field.

Though Pakistan responded well following overnight jet-leg they was unable to score on the given opportunities. No crowd or camera was allowed and the match was played in an empty stadium, owing to the importance of Olympic qualifiers to be played in four days time.

“Germany hockey had decided not to allow audience and cameras as they want their strategy to stay a secret before the Olympic qualify match,” a Pakistan team official revealed. He added that it was also of help to Pakistan.