Ipoh (Malaysia): Following their 2-2 draw against South Korea on Sunday, the Indian hockey team went down 1-2 despite giving a tough challenge to New Zealand in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup here on Monday.
New Zealand captain Simon Child and Andy Hayward helped them seal the win while Akashdeep Singh scored the lone goal for India.
India managed to keep the ball in possession from the first minute and penetrated into the opponent’s D on a few occasions. Gurbaj Singh and Kothajit Singh continuously attacked from both flanks and kept the opponent’s defence busy.
From New Zealand’s side, Child and midfielder Ryan Archibald tried to build attacks in the first quarter but were outclassed by the Indian defence.
In the second quarter, India earned the first penalty corner which went in vain. However, they maintained pressure on the Black Sticks, going into half-time 0-0.
In the 55th minute, New Zealand counter attacked and managed to earn a crucial penalty corner. They did not waste the opportunity as penalty corner specialist Hayward converted the opportunity into the winning goal. India will play their next match against hosts Malaysia on April 8. (IANS).
