London: The Indian men’s hockey team avenged its previous defeat to England with a 3-2 victory in a penalty shootout in its final FIH Hockey Pro League match on Sunday. The two sides were locked at 0-0 at the end of regulation time before India secured the bonus point through the shootout.
For India, Abhishek, Shilanand Lakra and Hardik Singh converted their attempts in the shootout to seal the victory.
England started aggressively and earned an early penalty corner after Yashdeep Singh fouled Sam Ward. Indian goalkeeper Mohit Shashikumar produced a brilliant double save, denying both Ward and Sanford to keep the scores level.
India’s best opportunity in the opening quarter came through Abhishek, but England dominated possession and continued to create chances.
England maintained the pressure in the second half as well, but Indian goalkeeper Sanjay Karkera made a series of crucial saves in the final quarter to deny the hosts. Defender Jarmanpreet Singh also made an important interception to stop a dangerous English counterattack.
England earned another penalty corner in the closing minutes, but Karkera once again came to India’s rescue. With just two seconds remaining, England was awarded another penalty corner, but India successfully overturned the decision through a video referral, ensuring the match finished goalless.
India held its nerve in the penalty shootout to register a 3-2 win and collect the bonus point.
Defender Sanjay was named the Player of the Match for his outstanding defensive display, while goalkeepers Mohit Shashikumar and Sanjay Karkera played key roles in keeping England scoreless throughout the contest.
The victory marked India’s final FIH Hockey Pro League fixture before the upcoming FIH Hockey World Cup.
