Rourkela: The city witnessed an impressive display of skill as the Indian men’s hockey team emerged victorious against Ireland with a resounding 4-0 scoreline at the Birsa Munda Stadium, marking the conclusion of the FIH Hockey Pro League 2023/24 in the city.
The game kicked off with Ireland earning a penalty corner in the first quarter, but the Indian goalkeeper P.R. Sreejesh and the solid defense thwarted their attempts. With just two minutes left in the quarter, India seized an opportunity as Nilakanta Sharma (14’) scored from a rebound off a penalty corner. Before Ireland could recover, Akashdeep Singh (15’) swiftly added another goal, securing a 2-0 lead for India by the end of the first quarter.
Despite Ireland’s attempts in the second quarter, the Indian defense remained resolute, maintaining the scoreline at 2-0 in India’s favor at halftime.
In the third quarter, Gurjant Singh (38’) extended India’s lead to three goals with a brilliant reverse-hit cross orchestrated by Mandeep Singh. The quarter concluded with India firmly ahead at 3-0.
The last quarter witnessed a slight decrease in intensity from both sides, but India retained possession, ensuring their lead. Despite Ireland earning a fifth penalty corner, Sreejesh’s exceptional skills denied any changes in the score. In the final minute, Jugraj Singh (60’) converted a penalty corner, sealing India’s triumph at 4-0.
With this victory, the Indian men’s hockey team secured the third position in the points standings. The team’s next challenge awaits in Antwerp, Belgium, where they will face Argentina in the upcoming leg of the tournament on May 22.
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