Sandeep scores winner for India

Y. B. SARANGI

Sandeep Singh converted a 68th minute penalty corner as India recorded a 2-1 win over South Africa in the closely-fought second hockey Test at the National Stadium here on Tuesday.

The visitors, producing a better performance, gave India a run for its money before suffering their second loss in a row in the five-match series. The home side took the lead through Chinglensana Singh (33) while South Africa found the equaliser through Lance Louw (43rd).

South Africa surprised the host with its purposeful approach and attacking style. It kept the Indian defence busy with frequent invasions. However, an alert Bharat Chetri under the bar, along with Ignace Tirkey and Manjeet Kullu, thwarted the attempts.

200 FOR KHANDEKAR

The Indian forwards, led by Tushar Khandekar (who was playing in his 200th international), returned the compliment but they too found it difficult to penetrate the rival circle. Strong marking helped the South Africans keep India at bay. Poor passing made matters worse for the host.

Dharamvir Singh wasted a fine opportunity created by S.K. Uthappa and Vikram Pillay from the left. The forward tried to beat the goalkeeper from an acute angle even as another striker — Mandeep Antil — stood unmarked inside the circle. Sandeep, after his forgettable showing as a defender, was sent upfield and it paid dividends. He penetrated the circle and passed the ball to Chinglensana, who made no mistake.

RENEWED VIGOUR

South Africa returned from the break with renewed vigour and earned three consecutive penalty corners. Eight minutes after half-time, Lowu scored off a rebound to draw parity.

In the dying minutes, India earned two penalty corners. Sandeep utilised the second corner, sending home a low drag-flick. India’s chief coach Michael Nobbs said sending Sandeep upfield was tried even in Australia. “This will make him versatile,” said Nobbs.

The result: India 2 (Chinglensana Singh, Sandeep Singh) bt South Africa 1 (Lance Louw).