Mandeep Singh did the star turn, scoring two goals, as the Indian men’s hockey team concluded their European tour with a 3-2 win against Britain in Antwerp, Belgium on Monday.
Harmanpreet Singh’s goal in the very first minute and twin strikes by Mandeep in the 28th and 59th minute helped India remain undefeated on the tour. For Britain, James Gall (20th minute) and striker Adam Forsyth (55th) scored. In the first match, Simranjeet Singh had scored a late goal to hold Britain to a 1-1 draw.
Against Germany, last week, PR Sreejesh-led India side secured a 6-1 win and a 1-1 draw.
India started aggressively against Britain on Monday. They earned a penalty corner in the first minute. The opportunity resulted in a goal as vice captain Harmanpreet Singh scored.
Britain replied with a concrete attack that helped them make a foray into the striking circle. However, upcoming goalkeeper Krishan B Pathak prevented damage. The early advantage helped Indian maintain pressure on their opponents to end the first quarter -10.
Britain drew parity in the 20th minute through midfielder James Gall’s field goal. The much-needed equaliser helped his team gain momentum. Putting India under pressure, Britain earned a penalty corner. This time, Sreejesh was goalkeeper to save.
India gained ascendancy in the 28th minute when forward Mandeep Singh successfully converted a penalty corner on the rebound.
India rallied to extend the lead further with an aggressive attack in the third quarter. Though India dominated the proceedings at the start of the fourth quarter as well, a quick turnaround saw Britain grabbing the opportunity as Alan Forsyth scored an equaliser in the 55th minute.
The last few minutes was a battle of nerves. Mandeep rose to the occasion, again, as his late strike help India finish with a win.
For the record, India’s tour to Europe involved some key players not being selected. In the build-up to an Olympics, this is routine. The idea is to experiment with the fresher talent available and find the best team which can be chosen for the Tokyo Olympics.