It was yet another draw for the Indian men's hockey team at the FIH Pro League as they shared points with Australia after the match ended 2-2. But the Aussies took home the bonus point after being perfect (3-0) in the shootout with India missing all their chances.
It was not a high-scoring and highly entertaining match like the previous one involving both the teams but this match had drama and goals.
The opening quarter was a cagey affair but the match opened up in the second quarter. India opened the scoring thanks to Harmanpreet Singh who was back in scoring form after three games. Australia responded quickly after Amit Rohidas fouled inside the circle which resulted in a penalty stroke. Blave Govers made no mistake and Australia were level 1-1.
Both teams played positive hockey in the second half. Manpreet was the standout player for India, winning the midfield battles against Australia while also being spot on with his reviews. Eventually, it was from his successful review that India won a penalty corner which was perfectly converted by Rohidas.
In the final quarter, Australia upped the intensity and pushed hard for an equaliser. In a momentary lapse in concentration, Sreejesh fouled Govers inside the circle and Australia were awarded another stroke. Sreejesh quickly made amends for his mistake and pulled off a top save to deny Govers from the spot.
However, a few minutes later, Australia did score to level the game. It was a mistake at the back with Australia intercepting a sloppy pass and Tom Craig ensured he scored the second goal.
No team could score the winner and the match went to shootout to decide who takes the bonus point. Australia's six-game winning streak came to an end while it was the third straight draw for India in the FIH Pro League.
The shootout turned out to be a disappointing affair for India as Akashdeep Singh, Sukhjeet Singh and Lalit Upadhayay missed their chances. Australia's Tim Brand, Flynn Ogilvie and Tom Wickham to win the shootout 3-0.
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