ISLAMABAD, Aug 24: Pakistan hockey team that won an eight-nation tournament in Holland last week arrived in Islamabad on Wednesday. The squad was received at the Islamabad International Airport by the officials of Pakistan Hockey Federation, Pakistan Sports Board and local hockey association.

Team manager Saeed Khan said that playing truly Asian style of hockey was one of the key reasons for victory. “We told the players to play their natural game and did not put them under undue pressure by dictating petty things to them.”

He pointed out that while the team played an attacking game in the tournament more aggression was still required upfront. “We have to raise our level even further if we are to win more tournaments.”

Saeed said that the players now were fitter than before, evidence of which was the kind of display in the second sessions of matches. “They are physically good but need to improve more.”

The team’s assistant coach Rana Mujhaid said that while victory in Amstelveen will do a lot of good to Pakistan hockey, their eyes remain firmly fixed on the Champions Trophy and the World Cup.

“Our preparations remain focussed on these two competitions and we will try and rectify whatever flaws that remain.”