The Indian junior men’s hockey team kicked off their Tour of Europe with a thrilling victory against Belgium, securing a 2-2 (4-2 SO) win in the first match of the tour, held in Antwerp, Belgium. The match showcased a stellar performance from the Indian side, particularly from vice-captain Shardanand Tiwari, who scored both goals for the team.
India took an early lead with Tiwari’s precision evident as he fired in a penalty stroke just three minutes into the game. The team maintained a high tempo throughout the first quarter, managing to hold onto their 1-0 lead by the end of the period.
In the second quarter, Tiwari once again demonstrated his prowess by converting another penalty stroke in the 27th minute, doubling India’s lead. The Indian team went into halftime with a comfortable 2-0 advantage, displaying strong defensive and offensive skills.
However, Belgium responded early in the third quarter, converting a penalty corner to reduce the deficit to one. Despite continued pressure from the Belgian side, the Indian defense held firm, and the third quarter ended with India leading 2-1.
The final quarter was intense, with Belgium applying relentless pressure on the Indian defense. Their efforts paid off in the dying minutes of the match as they managed to convert another penalty corner to level the score at 2-2. With no further goals scored in regulation time, the game moved to a penalty shootout to decide the winner.
In the shootout, the Indian team showcased nerves of steel. Gurjot Singh, Sourabh Anand Kushwaha, Dilraj Singh, and Manmeet Singh all found the back of the net for India. Goalkeeper Prince Deep Singh was the hero of the shootout, making two crucial saves to ensure a 4-2 victory for the Indian Colts.
Vice-captain Shardanand Tiwari’s contribution was pivotal in the match, with his two goals providing the foundation for India’s success. The team’s resilience and composure under pressure highlighted their preparedness and determination as they embark on their European tour.
This victory sets a positive tone for the Indian junior men’s team as they prepare for their next match against Belgium, which will be played in Breda, Netherlands, on May 22. The team will be looking to build on this success and continue their winning streak throughout the tour.
The Indian junior men’s hockey team’s performance in this opening match has been commendable, and they will be aiming to carry this momentum forward. The tour provides a valuable opportunity for the young players to gain international experience and show their skills on a larger stage.
As the tour progresses, the Indian Colts will face various European teams, which will further test their mettle and provide insights into their readiness for future international competitions. The team’s success in Antwerp is a promising start, and the upcoming matches will be crucial in their development and preparation for major tournaments ahead.
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