India upbeat despite heavy loss: Goalkeeper Paul

India goalkeeper Subrata Paul feels the loss against the mighty Australia was not demoralising, despite conceding four goals, and the team should take on Bahrain confidently in the next Group C Asian Cup match here Friday.

"We lost, but we have not been swamped. It was a fair result and I can say we can hold our heads high. We should be able to put up a better fight against Bahrain, who almost made it to the last World Cup. It will be another tough match and hopefully we will recover well for that game," the Pune FC goalkeeper told IANS.

Playing without skipper Bhaichung Bhutia, India -- the lowest ranked team in the tournament -- were outplayed in their opening game Monday but their performance came in for praise from even the Socceroos coach Holger Osieck.

Paul, who effected some excellent saves, admitted that robust physique made the difference between the two teams, but strategy-wise there was little to choose between them.

"Australia are the No.1 team in Asia and it won't be fair to compare us with them. Yesterday it was there for everybody to see that physically they were too strong, but tactically we matched them well," said Paul.

"The plan was to keep the Australian strikers away from our box. Our defenders Anwar and Gourmangi did extremely well to keep Tim Cahill and Harry Kewell in check for long durations. It was unfortunate the first goal appeared to have been scored from an off-side position. The way we kept pace with Australia, I believe we can only get better and better," he said.

As for his own performance, Paul said: "I can't say I am satisfied after conceding four goals. As a team we did well and that's important."

Asked if the team is still dependent on Bhaichung for goals, Paul said: "It is tough without Bhaichung because his presence is inspiring. But he is not getting any younger and the team realises it. We have all been together for seven months and all of us know what we are expected to do."

India, who are playing in the continental championship after 27 years, have been drawn in a strong pool and they play South Korea in their last match.

u00a0