AS the U21 Junior Hockey World Cup in India draws nearer, two local hockey players are hoping the South African team will leave their mark on the global spectacle. Though Durban North youngsters Daniel Sibbald (18) and Andrew Manson (21) have never been to a world cup before, they are optimistically upbeat about the national team’s chances.
The team’s preparations for the world cup started with the African qualifiers last year, which saw them secure four consecutive victories and the all-important result of beating Egypt 1-0 to qualify for the world cup. “We are going to India as serious underdogs. Our focus is to break into the top eight of the world and I’m confident in the team’s ability to do so,” Sibbald said.
His teammate Manson, who has represented KZN hockey since U12 upwards also believes the team have what it takes to achieve their goals. “There’s no doubting we’ve got a tough group. Malaysia, England and New Zealand are no push-overs but that’s not going to stop the team from giving it our all,” Manson said.
While the duo have played in front of big crowds, the atmosphere and conditions are going to be another challenging factor to overcome. “It’s hard to prepare for playing in India,” Sibbald. “It’s a a good turf but the environment is very different to what we’re used to. The noise will be terrific and the crowds are highly passionate. We just have to make sure we’re not complacent or overawed by the situation.”
The Junior World Cup will be held from 6-15 December 6 among 16 teams which are divided into four groups
