NAGOYA, Japan, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- China beat Oman 2-0 in the opening match of the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games men's hockey competition on Friday, with Gao Jiesheng and Du Shihao both scoring from penalty corners at Gifu Prefectural Green Stadium.
Gao broke the deadlock in the second quarter to give China a 1-0 halftime lead. Du doubled the advantage in the third quarter, and China held on to secure the victory.
Gao said China had put some of its training-ground work into practice but had yet to reach its best, with fatigue affecting the team in the latter stages and some details still needing improvement.
"We'll review the problems from today's match and prepare for the next one," he said.
Competing at his second Asian Games, Gao said he hoped to stay composed, give his all in every match and gain experience while pursuing a medal.
"Our goal is definitely to finish in the top three. We also want to fully demonstrate what we're capable of in training," he said.
Du said China gradually picked up the tempo by implementing the coach's tactical instructions.
"We need to fight for every game and every opportunity, taking it one step at a time," he said.
China coach Chi Gang praised the players for responding positively to difficulties and maintaining their composure in a challenging opening match.
"Even with the win, we need to review our performance carefully, pay greater attention to detail and raise our level for the matches ahead," Chi said.
China will next face Thailand in its second group match at the same venue on Sept. 22. ■
