Asian Games: India men continue dominance with 16-1 win over Singapore in hockey – Times of India
[ad_1]
Despite their status as the top-ranked team, India approached the game with determination, showcasing their relentless goal-scoring ability against the 49th-ranked Singapore squad.
Harmanpreet Singh was at the forefront of India’s attack, scoring four goals with precision from penalty corners (24th, 39th, 40th, and 42nd minutes). Mandeep Singh was equally impressive, contributing a hattrick with goals in the 12th, 30th, and 51st minutes.
Abhishek (51st, 52nd) and Varun Kumar (two goals, 55th) also added to India’s goal tally. Lalit Kumar Upadhyay (16th), Gurjant Singh (22nd), Vivek Sagar Prasad (23rd), Manpreet Singh (37th), and Shamsher Singh (38th) were the other goal scorers for India.
Despite their early dominance, it took India until the 12th minute for Mandeep Singh to break the deadlock, redirecting a pass from Gurjant Singh into the goal. India secured numerous penalty corners in the first quarter but failed to convert any.
However, in the second quarter, India’s attack found its rhythm, with five goals being scored. Lalit, Gurjant, Vivek Sagar Prasad, and Harmanpreet contributed to this offensive surge.
The goal spree continued in the third quarter, with Manpreet Singh, Harmanpreet (twice), and Shamsher adding to the tally. Singapore managed to score a consolation goal in the 53rd minute through Zaki Zulkarnain.
The Indian team maintained their relentless attack, with Varun Kumar converting two consecutive penalty corners in the closing minutes of the match to seal the comprehensive victory.
Despite their convincing win, India faced challenges with penalty corner conversions, succeeding in just eight out of the 22 secured during the match.
With their strong performance against Singapore, India looks forward to their next challenge against defending champions Japan in the tournament.
(With PTI inputs)
[ad_2]
