Many positives from HWL

New Delhi: Germany had a disappointing campaign at the Hero Hockey World League Final that concluded in the capital on Saturday. The Olympic champions finished seventh out of eight teams and relinquished their status as the world’s top ranked team to an impressive Australia.

Though disappointed with the team’s performance, Germany captain Oliver Korn felt his squad could take a lot of positives home from India.

“It was a tough tournament for us. There were a lot of strong teams here, it was a really good competition for us. But there were a few youngsters in our team and it was a learning experience for them. It has given us a fair idea of where we stand right now and what are the improvements that we have to make before the World Cup,” Korn told this paper after Germany beat Argentina 2-1 in the play-off for seventh place.

“We know we are strong. We are among the top teams and when we are in peak form, we can win any tournament.”

Korn was one of the few bright sparks for the Germans at the HWL. He scored three goals and was a constant threat for rival defences.

“I am quite satisfied but I can do better. I am happy that as a captain I could set an example for the other players,” he said.

The 29-year-old was not too upset at losing the top spot in the FIH world rankings to Australia.