Rotterdam, June 21: The Indian men’s hockey team secured a thrilling 3-2 victory against the Netherlands on Sunday in their final match of the FIH Pro League Rotterdam leg at the Rotterdam Hockey Club.
Jugraj Singh (18’), Abhishek (27’), and Rajinder Singh (56’) scored for India, marking the team’s second win against the Netherlands in this leg. Hardik Singh, the acting captain, was named Player of the Match for his exceptional leadership and performance in midfield.
The Netherlands started strong in the first quarter, applying pressure on the Indian players with their aggressive play. However, Indian defenders quickly found their rhythm and successfully thwarted the Dutch attacks, resulting in a scoreless first quarter.
In the second quarter, India ramped up their efforts. Jugraj Singh opened the scoring with a powerful drag-flick to the left of Dutch goalkeeper Dirk Meyer, making it 1-0. The Netherlands responded with a penalty corner goal from Pepijn van der Heijden (19’), leveling the score at 1-1. Despite several aggressive attempts, the Indian goalkeeper denied all of the Netherlands’ efforts.
In the 27th minute, Jarmanpreet Singh delivered a brilliant pass to Abhishek, who netted a backhand shot, giving India a 2-1 lead before halftime.
In the second half, India aimed to control the match with effective passing. The Netherlands earned a penalty corner in the 41st minute, but Amit Rohidas deflected van der Heijden’s shot. Another penalty corner opportunity for the host team was wasted due to a stopper error, allowing India to maintain their 2-1 lead as the third quarter concluded.
In the final quarter, Rajinder Singh scored from a penalty corner in the 56th minute, extending India’s lead to 3-1. The Netherlands won three consecutive penalty corners in the 58th minute, but the Indian defense held firm. Koen Bijen (59’) managed to score from a penalty corner variation, narrowing the gap to 3-2. Ultimately, India emerged victorious with a final score of 3-2.
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