Indian women's hockey coach Mathias Ahrens seemed satisfied at the 3-1 victory his team posted against Poland in a group match of the World League Semifinals here today.
The scoreline was a repeat of the title encounter in the World Hockey League - Round Three, which was played in New Delhi earlier this year.
Ahrens, who took over as the national team's chief coach in May, said it was important for the Indian girls to get this victory to stay in contention for the quarterfinals from the five-team competition.
"The important thing is that the girls won and they played at a much fitter level," said Ahrens.
"It was not an easy encounter for us. Poland had just focused on this match," said Ahrens.
"The Polish team made no great effort in the previous two outings. All their preparations seemed to focus on us, while we came into the tournament with a much wider perspective," the coach said.
India had suffered defeats against hosts Belgium (1-0) and New Zealand (5-0) in previous outings.
Poland had also lost both their previous matches. They were outplayed by New Zealand (12-0) and Australia (9-0).
"Poland seemed to have prepared with the sights set on India. I am glad we were able to give a good account in the 3 -12 victory," said Ahrens.
Rani Rampal was the livewire of the Indian attack, scoring two goals and setting up the third one. Poland's only goal came through a defensive lapse by India, which saw the ball deflect into the boards off a diving defender's stick.
