New Delhi: England surprised with a narrow 2-1 victory over Olympic champions Germany in their second pool A match making them top of the table.

England started with great pace, scoring the opening goal in the 4th minute when Tom Carson won possession in the circle. He turned quickly to smash the ball into the goal leaving Germany’s goalkeeper Nico Jacobi no chance.

However, the Olympic champions struck back thanks to Marko Miltkau (11’) stealing the ball from an England defender. England decided to use their video referral in this situation but the goal was confirmed meaning the English team lost their referral at an early stage.

In the middle of the first half Ashley Jackson (21’) brought the world-ranked number four back ahead when scoring his 50th goal in his England career. Jackson flicked home a penalty corner and will be happy that the ball was deflected highly into the net by Germany’s first runner Tobias Matania.

The crowd in the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium saw England defending well throughout the second half although Germany were pushing hard for the equaliser. Their best opportunity came from a penalty corner which hit the post.

Speaking on the win England Coach Bobby Crutchley said, “we are satisfied with our win today. It was the quality of the game that the boys maintained which helped us win put the pressure on them and win the match. Second half of the game Germany was aggressive and put the pressure back on us but our defense saved us the game today”

Speaking on team’s performance Germany Coach Markus Weise said, “the England team proved to be a better team and they deserved to win. Disappointed with today’s performance and hoping for a good show in the next game. Our next game is with India and we will play to win”.