India won the first Test of the seven match hockey series against Canada 2-0 at the University of Victoria ground, Victoria, Canada today.

The goals were scored by Tushar Khandker (27th) and Sandeep Singh (66th) minutes.

The Canadians who put up a stiff resistance to thwart the Indian attackers from finding space relied on turnovers but the Indian deep defence was well serviced by Sardar Singh supported by Gurbaj Singh and Dhananjay Mahadik.

Canada earned two penalty corners as against India’s one.

Tushar Khandker playing as a midfielder put India ahead in the 27th minute after shaking off his marker and firing home past Canada custodian David Carter.

India missed a couple of scoring chances shortly after but attempts from Gurwinder Chandi and Sarwanjit Singh were off target.

Canada came back strongly at the start of the second half but the backhand efforts from Gabbar Singh and Connor Meakin were well saved by goalkeeper Adrian D’Souza.

Shortly after, India lost a chance to increase the lead when Rajpal Singh failed to connect a Vikram Pillay cross at the second post. This was followed by another attempt but Shivendra Singh’s effort was foiled by Canadian defender Wayne Fernandes.

Sandeep Singh sealed Canada’s fate in the 66th minute as he sank a penalty corner to give India victory.

The second Test will be also played at Victoria on Sunday.

Source: Hockey India Media Release