Bhubaneswar: In a fiercely contested match at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium, the Indian men’s hockey team faced a heartbreaking 4-6 defeat against Australia in their third encounter of the FIH Hockey Pro League 2023/24 on Thursday.
Australia seized an early advantage with a double-goal lead within the first two minutes, courtesy of Blake Govers’s swift brace. The first goal came through a penalty corner, followed by a scintillating counterattack resulting in a field goal.
India, responding resiliently, staged a second-quarter comeback, scoring four goals. Captain Harmanpreet Singh netted twice (12′, 20′), while Sukhjeet Singh (18′) and Mandeep Singh (29′) contributed a goal each. The visitors, however, turned the tide in the second half, scripting a thrilling comeback.
Australia’s goal-fest included contributions from Aran Zalewski (40′), Lachlan Sharp (52′), Jacob Anderson (55′), and Jack Welch (58′). Despite India’s spirited defense, Australia managed to secure a two-goal lead in the closing minutes, emerging victorious with a final score of 6-4.
The second quarter saw India dominating proceedings, with Sukhjeet and Harmanpreet leading the charge. The hosts displayed skillful attacks, turning the game around to lead 4-2 at halftime.
The third quarter witnessed Australia’s relentless pressure, forcing India to defend deep within their circle. Zalewski pulled a goal back for Australia in the 40th minute. Amit Rohidas’s sublime save during a penalty corner further denied Australia from equalizing.
However, Australia seized control in the final quarter, equalizing and then taking a 5-4 lead through Sharp and Anderson’s goals. India’s tactical move to remove the goalkeeper in the dying moments proved costly, as Welch capitalized, sealing Australia’s 6-4 victory.
India will look to bounce back in their upcoming fourth match against Ireland on Friday.