In a nail biting clash, the Indian hockey side rebounded from a one goal deficit to overpower Germany 5-3, the reigning world champions, in the second test. With captain Harmanpreet Singh and Sukhjeet Singh on the field, the Indians showed tremendous fighting spirit and offensive ability which helped them to erase the deficit. It was indeed a great match full of emotions where both teams fought with great skill and determination. But the Germans hung on and claimed the series in the shootout against India’s spirited challenge.
On performance, the match was played at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi. Germany’s very early lead through Elian Mazkour′s seventh minute was crucial to the match. India, however, showed character and duty as both Sukhjeet Singh and captain Harmanpreet Singh seconded each with two goals whilst Abhishek added another to draw the series.
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The second half was an abundance of offensive hockey, as both sides created and converted zero opportunities to score in the first two periods of the match. One goal from India’s penalty corner and several more forceful teamwork and execution made India’s attack throughout the game stand out. They were able to hold onto the ball and break through the German defense barrier and this proved too central to the counterattack strategy.
But Germany recovered quickly and scored two in the dying minutes to end the match 5-3 in their favour. The match then went to a penalty shootout in which India lost 1-3, despite the brave efforts of custodian Krishan Bahadur Pathak who made two telling saves. India lacked the poise and accuracy under duress during the shootout which will be an area of concern for the team in subsequent tournaments.
India had a good game in the second Test, but the series loss emphasizes the fact that penalty shootouts are an area that requires improvement. Still the fight and time attacking style of play was there for everyone to see and was on display during the match and in their attack they will draw confidence from the match. The young players especially the whole series will be helpful for the Indian team. They are developing and with more exposure in the future, Indian hockey can become more and more stronger over the years. They will surely improve the skills and mental toughness with the pressure of competitive games and high-quality opponents. These young players have raw talent and with consistent hard work Indian hockey can be taken to a new level and bring medal to the country.