Bhubaneswar: The Indian Men’s Hockey Team wrapped up their Bhubaneswar leg of the FIH Hockey Pro League 2024/25 with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over England at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium on Tuesday. Captain Harmanpreet Singh led from the front, scoring twice (26’, 33’) to guide India to a crucial win, lifting them to third place in the standings.
England, fresh off a thrilling 3-2 victory the previous day, entered the match with momentum but struggled to create clear chances early on. India, on the other hand, showed attacking intent but lacked the finishing touch in a tightly contested first quarter.
The second quarter saw India ramping up their offensive efforts, with Abhishek dazzling through England’s defense before setting up Sukhjeet Singh, who narrowly missed converting from close range. India’s persistence paid off in the 26th minute when Hardik Singh’s brilliant 3D skills earned the hosts their first penalty corner. Harmanpreet, one of the game’s finest drag-flickers, stepped up and unleashed a powerful strike to put India ahead, sending the packed stadium into celebration.
England responded quickly as Harmanpreet’s challenge on Jacob Payton led to a penalty stroke in the 30th minute. England captain Conor Williamson made no mistake, calmly placing the ball past Suraj Karkera to level the score.
India wasted no time regaining their lead in the third quarter. Just three minutes after England’s equalizer, Harmanpreet struck again, his thunderous drag-flick finding the top right corner to restore India’s advantage. With the home crowd roaring, India took control of the match, maintaining their defensive shape while looking for counterattacking opportunities.
England pressed hard in the final quarter, winning a penalty corner in the 48th minute, but Karkera produced a stunning save to deny Sam Ward. India nearly extended their lead moments later when Hardik Singh delivered a lofted pass into the circle, but England goalkeeper Oliver Payne rushed out to clear the danger.
In a desperate attempt to equalize, England pulled their goalkeeper with three minutes left, opting for an extra outfield player. However, India’s disciplined defense held firm, ensuring a well-earned victory and a strong finish to their campaign in Bhubaneswar.
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