Breda 6N: Indian Junior Men finish fourth
Breda (Netherlands), 25 July 2015: The India and England U-21 Men Team playing for the 3rd position of the Volvo Invitational U-21 (Men) Tournament 2015 at Breda, Netherlands, saw a skilful and strategic game of hockey as both the teams aimed at outwitting each other and winning the match. It was England who through their better performance came out winners as they claimed the 3rd position and India settling for the 4th position in the tournament.
Both the teams started the game with huge motivation as they looked to score the quick goal. But unfortunately for India, England pounced on an easy opportunity just 7 minutes into the game as they skilfully entered the D and it was Edward Horler who hit the ball past the Indian goalie. With the goal England took the early lead and the scorecard read 1-0 in their favour.
Not allowing the goal by England to deter their determination, India was soon seen in the opponents D as they tactfully earned a penalty corner in their name. But the opponents defence proved to be stronger as they cleared the danger and India lost the opportunity to equalise. India continuing its pressure with another penalty corner which again went a waste, as the England goalie saved for his team. Just more than a minute left for the first half to end, India had another chance on the penalty corner but they were still kept away from the goal and the session ended 1-0 in England’s favour.
The teams stepped on the turf in the second half with clear intentions. While India was looking at equalising the game, England knew they had to double its lead and make their stand stronger. It was yet again England’s Edward Horler who again successfully beat the Indian defence and scored the second goal of the match in the 47th minute. While India was trailing the entire team was still playing with a spirit of going all out and scoring. They gave a tough time to the England defence as they looked for the gap and put the ball in the nets. In the 68th minute, England again scored through Samuel Hatherley as he hit past the Indian goalkeeper to score their third goal and in a manner sealing the fate of the game. The three goals helped England win and take the 3rd position in the tournament.