New Delhi: Rupinder Pal Singh’s double went in vain as the men’s hockey team lost 2-3 to hosts Australia in a tense opening game of the four-nation invitational tournament in Melbourne on Wednesday.
India began positively against top-ranked Australia, showing positive intent and energy in the first quarter. However, the first 15 minutes ended in a stalemate.
India managed to gain three successive penalty corners in the second quarter of the match.
After missing the first two, Rupinder did not disappoint the third time as his powerful and precise drag-flick in the 21st minute gave India a 1-0 lead.
Australia responded quickly, negating the advantage three minutes later through Jeremy Hayward. The hosts emerged stronger in the third quarter, scoring twice to surge ahead 3-1. Hayward scored his second goal in the 36th minute and then Trent Mitton added another.
Rupinder brought India back into the game with another penalty corner in the 53rd minute as the match witnessed an engrossing end.
Women win
Unlike their men’s counterparts, the women opened up with a win over Australia. Led by Vandana Katariya, India triumphed over fourth-ranked Australia 1-0 at the State Netball & Hockey Centre. India had the hosts under pressure and were awarded a penalty corner in the 21st minute. Rani sent a strong hit past Australia goalkeeper for the lone goal of the match.
