Cassiem - Nations Cup silver medal attests to the growth of SA Hockey

The hosts threw everything at France in Saturday’s final at Hartleyvale Stadium in Cape Town, but the visitors held their nerve to secure a thrilling 2-1 victory to lift the trophy.

Speaking during the post-match press conference, Cassiem admitted that France were the stronger side in the opening half.

“We didn’t start the game well enough and in international hockey you have to start well. I wish we could have shown the same energy in the first half that we produced in the second, but I’m still proud of the boys for winning the silver medal.

“We’re not completely satisfied because there are still plenty of areas we can improve on, but these are important steps forward for us. We believe that winning the silver medal is a good foundation to help grow the sport in the country,” said Cassiem.

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Meanwhile, France captain Francois Goyet says claiming gold was the ultimate reward after the team finished third at the previous edition in Malaysia.

“In the end we managed to keep them out. Our goalkeeper was outstanding and we worked incredibly hard in defence. I’m very happy because we’ve been trying to win this tournament for several years.”

The triumph secured France a coveted place in next season’s FIH Pro League, while South Africa’s silver medal finish marked their best-ever result at the tournament.