The Indian junior men’s hockey team played out a thrilling 5-5 draw against Australia in the 10th Sultan of Johor Cup here on Wednesday.
Bobby Singh Dhami (2′), Sharda Nand Tiwary (8′, 35), Arijit Singh Hundal (18′) and Amandeep (60) scored for India, while Australia scored through Liam Hart (3). Got the last position of the net. ), Jack Holland (8′), Joshua Brooks (20′, 41′) and Jake Lambeth (49′).
India got off to a great start to the game, with skipper Uttam Singh going to the baseline to score with his first move for his deputy Bobby Singh Dhami (2′). Less than a minute later, Australia tied with Liam Hart (3′), giving a strong start to the competition. Soon after, Australia went ahead as Jack Holland (8′) found the back of the net. But the lead did not last long and a crisp shot from the penalty corner by Sharda Nand Tiwary (8′) leveled the proceedings. After that neither side bothered the goalscorers as the quarter ended 2-2.
The next quarter also started at a brisk pace, with Bobby Singh Dhami looking to run over the Australian defense in the opening exchanges. And the pressure paid off, as Arijit Singh Hundal (18′) was able to deliver a pass from the goalkeeper. India lead again. A few minutes later, India goalkeeper Mohit Sasikumar looked yellow and Joshua Brooks (20′) removed the penalty to 3-3. And as was the case with the first quarter, neither side was able to break the deadlock and the whole square went into half-time.
After the break, India continued their search for another goal and the lead. It took them five minutes, as Sharda Nand Tiwary (35′) converted another penalty corner with a conviction. However, a penalty corner from Joshua Brooks (41′) made it 4–4, quickly approaching the final break in the game.
In the final stages of the game, both sides were looking for a winner and increased their intensity in the attack as well. Four minutes in, it was Australia who put their noses up with a penalty corner from Jake Lambeth (49′). India gave their all in the search for an equalizer in the final minutes, and it was Amandeep (60′) who came up with the goods just before the final hooter, as the two teams shared the spoils in a 10-goal thriller.
India will take on Great Britain in their fifth match at the 10th Sultan of Johor Cup on 28 October.
read all Latest sports news Here