Thursday 22 January 2015 10:31, UK
Germany claimed the Champions Trophy after a hard-fought 2-0 win over Pakistan in the final.
Christopher Wesley and Florian Fuchs scored the goals as Germany secured the silverware for a 10th time at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar.
Pakistan were without Muhammad Tousiq and Ali Amjad, who were handed one-match bans for making obscene gestures after the semi-final win over hosts India.
And the depleted Asian team were forced on the back foot in the opening minute as they conceded a penalty corner, but Germany spurned the early opening.
Markus Weise’s side continued to push for a breakthrough, failing to convert a short corner in the first minute of the second quarter.
But their efforts were rewarded in the 18th minute as Wesley showed his predatory instincts, striking the ball home from close range.
Pakistan pressed for an equaliser after half-time, but were held at bay by the Olympic gold medallists.
Restricted to counter attacks, Germany still carried plenty of attacking menace and Christopher Ruhr should have done better with two wasted short corners.
But Fuchs displayed greater accuracy as he added a crucial second in the 56th minute. Moritz Furste sent over an inviting aerial pass and Fuchs found the net with a precise shot off the post.
Pakistan’s desperate attempts to reduce the deficit proved fruitless as Germany added another title triumph to their growing list of achievements.
Head coach Weise was delighted with his players after they frustrated Pakistan with a stubborn defensive display.
"We only gave them one opportunity to score," he said. "It all paid off. I think we deserved the win today."
In the bronze medal match, Australia claimed a 2-1 victory over India with goals from Eddie Ockenden and Matt Gohdes.
