With a 1-2 loss, the Indian men’s hockey team’s losing streak against Australia continued. It was, however, a far more competitive match than the first two (1-5 and 2-4). Australia took an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series after Jeremy Hayward’s brace turned things around for Australia. India had taken the lead through Jugraj Singh.
India in the game till 2nd quarter
Australia’s ultra-attacking style of hockey persisted continued in the third match of the series too, but Craig Fulton’s India, led by PR Sreejesh, displayed a strong defensive game to hold the hosts at bay for the first two quarters.
Series up in smoke
India took the lead through a penalty corner in the third quarter. In the 41st minute, Jugraj’s incredible drag-flick gave Fulton’s team the advantage. The lead, however, was short-lived, as Amit Rohidas gave up a penalty kick three minutes later, which Hayward duly converted.
Australia took the lead four minutes into the final quarter when Hayward dribbled a PC past Sreejesh once more. India had little to no chance of tying the score as Australia maintained their rapid pace and the game progressed.
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Worry ahead of Paris Olympics
Even though the defensive errors might be viewed as isolated incidents that could be avoided another day, India’s forwards’ inconsistency in producing goals is still a cause for concern as Paris Olympics 2024 looms large. Several times when their midfielders and defenders played well to force errors, they lost possession of the ball while attempting to counterattack.
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