2-3 in hard-fought men’s FIH Pro League match

The Indian men’s hockey team put up a strong fight, but England captain Sam Ward’s two goals led to a 2-3 loss for the home team in a FIH Pro League match on Monday. England opened the scoring with Jacob Payton before Ward added two more to surprise the hosts.

The goals for India were netted by Abhishek and Sukhjeet Singh. The two teams were even in the first quarter, as each side pressured the other for the opening goal.

The Indians, on the other hand, were prone to making unforced mistakes in defence, particularly captain Harmapreet Singh, who seemed off his game. From one of these mistakes, England capitalized with a goal from Payton’s field attempt.

Abhishek equalized the score three minutes later with a skilled play on the field. However, England surprised India once more a minute later when Ward netted an impressive field goal following a great one-two with Payton.

In the 24th minute, England earned consecutive penalty corners but were unable to take advantage of them. The Indians showcased their dominance as England found it difficult to escape their defensive zone in the second quarter, even after gaining the lead.

However, the Indian defense faltered once more as Ward netted his second goal of the match due to an unforced mistake, with goalkeeper Suraj Karkera appearing bewildered. India earned a penalty corner in the 39th minute, which was overturned after England called for a referral.

Moments later, Sukhjeet redirected Hardik Singh’s shot after receiving a great pass from Sanjay.

Shortly after, India earned two additional penalty corners but squandered them as Harmanpreet seemed out of form. In the 49th minute, Dilpreet Singh nearly found the net, but his reverse shot was expertly saved by England’s goalkeeper, James Mazerelo. Shortly after, England goalkeeper Mazerelo executed a double save to prevent Uttam Singh from scoring.

The English won a penalty corner in the 46th minute but wasted the chance.Trailing by a goal, India pressed hard and won a penalty corner just a minute from the final hooter but Harmanpreet’s flick was saved by Mazerelo in front of the English goal. India will again play England in a return leg match here on Tuesday.