The team tactically performed very well, our restricted man to man defence was the right decision with the players showing a lot of concentration and passion, as well as very good team play helping each other. In regards to the attack, we played more counter-attack in the first two games (Germany & Andorra) for the first 10 minutes in each half then after time outs called we decided to pressure the teams and we got the games in control with a good carousel.
The last game against Austria was an easy game and the team played too individually. I called a time out to tell the players to play carousel and concentrate more. We then created a lot difficulty for Austria with their goalkeeper being the best player for them.

We played under bad conditions with temperatures over 40 degrees Celsius and the Sport Centre did not have air conditioning. The heat was affecting our players too much and we had to keep changing the team to ensure the players recovered during the game and to be ready for next game.
On the last day I was congratulated by Portuguese, Spanish and Italian press as well as their team managements for the fantastic achievement, 6th place.

In conclusion I am very pleased with our performance showing a bright future for England and giving us more options for the next competition, World Championship in Switzerland in June 2007.
Also, we have gained even more our respect from other countries.
Carlos Amaral
NRHA Coaching Director & Seniors Head Coach