Paris olympics 2024: stylistic change behind india's hockey glory

That has, inarguably contributed to consecutive bronze medals, a first for the side since 1972. Conceding 12 goals over an entire tournament is just one part of the equation. Their defensive

structures have been outstanding, there has been a sense of calm. Even when they been in arrears, their usually frenetic, almost schizophrenic brand of hockey has been a welcome absence. In

the games against New Zealand, Argentina, Belgium and even against Germany in the semifinals, they had patience and faith and rarely veered away from maintaining structure. The other facet

of their defensive play in Paris has been displayed in games like Australia and Great Britain. Against the latter, they rejigged personnel following the red card to Amit Rohidas. But even

with 10 men, Great Britain didn't conjure enough clear-cut chances on target. Then, perhaps, it's not at all ironic how the final quarter against Spain played itself out. After

largely controlling the game, the Iberians threw everything in the last few minutes as they chased an equaliser. India ended up conceding a few penalty corners at the end but it never looked

like they were in any real danger of losing that advantage. Rewind back the mind to that bronze medal match against Germany in Tokyo. After Germany cranked up the pressure, PR Sreejesh

saved a penalty corner with mere seconds remaining to rubber-stamp a 5-4 win. Three years later, Sreejesh, in his final match for India, again had a big role. But that was the only

similarity between 2021 and 2024, apart from the colour of the medal. In that same press conference in 2023, Fulton added that he was a 'very forward, attacking coach' but 'I

also like to do a very solid defensive play'. It's what gave India it's 13th hockey medal.