Akash’s brace help India to beat Malaysia 3-2
Two goals in three minutes by youngster Akashdeep Singh helped India post its first win here in the World Cup.

In a tough match, in which India showcased its dominance, Akash sent a gem of a pass by Sardar Singh between his legs to bemuse otherwise rival goalie Kumar Subramaniam, to take lead second time in the match. The goal came moments after India conceded a penalty corner and survived. In the counter, its Sardar who engineered a move from near his own D to other before passing a hard push towards circle, which Akash capitalized. The score that time was 2-1, time 49th minute.

Earlier, India got its goal following a failed penalty corner attempt. However, 24-year old Jasjit Kular struck his first international goal to break the ice in the 14th minute.

Indian forwards got numerous opening thanks to hardworking midfield and defence splitting passes by Rupinder Pal Singh, but they missed. SV Sunil in particular is culprit of two sitters. He also messed up a good solo of him, hitting wide in a clear cage midway in the second half.

However, 11 minutes after half time, Rahim Razie struck for Malaysia (1-1). His shot off the penalty corner was well anticipated by PR Sreejesh, but it bounced back of him, he swung his stick to clear before the ball crosses the goaline, but did not connect.

Then came the Akashdeep Singh’s first goal in the 49th minute much to the relief of good Indian support.

The Malaysian bench went for a referral, but Indian goal stood to tv scrutiny.

Within three minutes, Akashdeep gave a good finish to a combined counter to give India 3-1 lead.

Ten minutes later, Marhan Jalil punctured India to make it a fight (3-2), and the fears Indian shortcoming of closing down the matches started haunting.

India survived those remaining nine minutes with caution and aggression.

“We should have scored 2,3 more goals in the first half, said jubilant coach Terry Walsh

“We are definitely improving” said captain Sardar Singh