Finance
By: Shree1news, 03 MAR 2021
The Indian men’s hockey team played out a 1-1 draw towards Germany within the second game of its four-match tour of Europe.
Jarmanpreet opened the scoring for India within the fourth minute, whereas Martin Haner scored the equaliser for Germany.
High on confidence after a dominating 6-1 win in the opening match, world No.4 India started on an attacking note towards the hosts and earned themselves a penalty corner in the 4th minute, which was transformed by defender Jarmanpreet with a classic slap shot.
Throughout the following two minutes, the hosts also bounced again and got their chance to attain an equaliser with a PC but could not capitalise.
The visitors continued to be dominant in the second quarter, displaying better ball possession and creating opportunities with an intent to capitalise on the early lead.
However, the quarter ended with the hosts putting pressure on the Indian men with strong man-to-man tackle.
The hosts backed their tactical play with some quick forays into the striking circle, leading to them earning back-to-back PCs.
It was in their second attempt when the experienced Martin Haner levelled the score 1-1 minutes ahead of the half-time break.
Continuing the momentum, the third quarter saw Germany retaining the ball in the Indian half to create scoring opportunities however, Indian defenders remained composed and set-up a well-structured defence that saved the German forward-line from converting.
A strong block from Surender Kumar on the final minute noticed the third quarter ending in a 1-1 stalemate.
The final quarter saw some nail-biting moments, with each the teams upping the ante before the match led to a 1-1 deadlock.
“This match was a good experience for our players. It was a tough match and the team worked hard. Both teams created opportunities and I believe we will learn a lot from this game,” stated India’s chief coach Graham Reid.
India will next play Great Britain on Saturday.
Source:A-N
