Did India Triumph Over New Zealand 3-2 in Sultan Azlan Shah Cup?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Strong Start: India opened the scoring early with a penalty corner.
- Defensive Strength: The Indian defence was crucial in maintaining their lead.
- Captain's Contribution: Sanjay's goal was pivotal in extending India's advantage.
- Resilience: India responded quickly after New Zealand's equalizer.
- Upcoming Challenge: India will face Canada next, aiming for another win.
Ipoh (Malaysia) Nov 27 (NationPress) The Indian men's hockey team showcased an impressive performance, edging out New Zealand with a score of 3-2 in a thrilling encounter at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup Stadium in Ipoh on Thursday.
Amit Rohidas (4’), Sanjay (32’), and Selvam Karthi (54’) found the back of the net for India, while George Baker scored two goals for New Zealand in the 42nd and 48th minutes.
New Zealand began the match on the offensive, but India's solid defence thwarted their scoring attempts. The first significant chance came from India, resulting in a penalty corner, expertly converted by Amit Rohidas (4’) with a powerful drag-flick, giving India an early lead. India nearly doubled their advantage when Abhishek's close-range shot was saved by the New Zealand goalkeeper, concluding a lively first quarter at 1-0.
The Black Sticks aimed for an equaliser in the second quarter, advancing with determination. They earned a penalty corner but were denied by India's resolute defence, allowing India to maintain a slender halftime lead.
India commenced the second half with vigor, quickly extending their advantage as Captain Sanjay (32’) scored from a penalty corner. New Zealand responded with several penalty corners but struggled to penetrate the Indian defence. Although Pawan was exceptional in goal, he was eventually beaten by George Baker (42’), setting the stage for an exhilarating final quarter.
New Zealand entered the fourth quarter seeking their second goal and managed to equalise at 2-2 with another penalty corner converted by George Baker (48’). India responded swiftly; Abhishek provided a precise pass, which was skillfully finished by Selvam Karthi (54’), restoring India's lead. Although they had a chance to secure the game with a penalty stroke, they could not convert, but India held on to their lead in the closing moments to clinch a 3-2 victory and earn a well-deserved win.
India's next challenge will be against Canada on November 29.