The recent face-off between the Indian men’s hockey team and Australia in Perth offers contrasting perspectives: one, highlighting India’s commendable performance, and the other, underscoring Australia’s continued dominance over them. As the season progresses, performance evaluations become paramount, especially with an eye on the upcoming Paris Olympics and the ambition to replicate or exceed the Tokyo bronze. However, the recurring pattern of losses to Australia, a team they’ll face in the same pool, cannot be overlooked and might leave lasting scars.
India’s recent 1-3 loss to Australia showcased some promising aspects, yet it marks their fourth consecutive defeat. While there’s a noticeable upward trend in performance, the inability to secure victories or even draws against the formidable Kookaburras remains a glaring issue.
Captain Harmanpreet Singh’s early goal in the 12th minute provided a temporary lead, igniting hope. However, similar to previous encounters, India couldn’t maintain their advantage against Australia’s relentless offensive. Jeremy Hayward’s crucial goals (19′, 47′) from penalty corners turned the tide, with Jack Welch (54′) sealing the victory, all goals originating from set pieces.
Ahead of the match, India’s head coach Craig Fulton emphasized the need for more penalty corners, considering it a vital scoring avenue. Despite their proficiency in converting chances, the team’s inability to generate sufficient penalty corners is concerning. Fulton also stressed the necessity for improved performance from the forward line.
“Our primary focus remains on our offensive game, particularly in the final third, where we’ve been lacking. We’ve been struggling to maintain cohesion when approaching the opponent’s goal. There’s a significant emphasis on enhancing our counterattacks, prolonging possession in the opposition’s half, and capitalizing on those opportunities. Additionally, we haven’t been consistent enough in winning penalty corners throughout the match quarters.
India made strides in both areas during the game
To their credit, India made strides in both areas during the game. Despite some hiccups, they managed to secure at least six penalty corners, with their lone goal once again originating from a short corner. Furthermore, the forwards succeeded in testing Australia’s goalkeeper Johan Durst more frequently, resulting in some impressive saves.
Right from the outset, Mandeep Singh posed a threat in the circle, courtesy of a brilliant pass from Harmanpreet in the opening minute. Although Mandeep’s strike was on target, it was straight at Durst. Mandeep played a pivotal role in winning India’s first penalty corner, along with contributions from Abhishek and Gurjant Singh. The subsequent penalty corner led to India’s goal, skillfully converted by Harmanpreet.
India had opportunities to regain the lead in the second quarter, with Raj Kumar Pal and Abhishek forcing saves from Durst with reverse hits. Araijeet Singh Hundal, making his debut in the tour, showcased promising moments in attack. The first half certainly kept the Australians on their toes, prompting Tom Wickham to acknowledge during halftime: “India have come to play!”
However, Australia adjusted their strategy in the second half, opting for passive possession, a departure from their usual intensity. India’s offensive chances dwindled, although they still had sporadic opportunities on the counter. Nonetheless, the smooth ball control desired by Fulton during transitions was lacking.
On the positive side, the goalkeeping performance was notable. Suraj Karkera, playing as the second goalkeeper, made a crucial save in the second quarter, denying a fine strike from Lachlan Sharp with his left glove. Overall, Karkera put in a commendable performance.
While Fulton may have witnessed many of the improvements he sought, the outcome remained unchanged. Despite India’s efforts, they couldn’t breach the Australian defense once more. With a fifth and final opportunity looming on Saturday, India faces another chance to make their mark.”
Comments 2