India’s defining moments in Dhaka continued, as Sonepat lad Abhishek’s opportunistic goal three seconds before the hooter, gave India the Asian Sub-Junior Champions title, as it set aside the tough challenge of the hosts Bangladesh in this way (5-4).
Sixteen years ago, Baljit Singh Dhillon led Indians won the PM Cup here on the same turf, and now Sundargarh lad Nilam Sanjeeb Xess’ team has done.
For Prime Minister Cup, India came out with colours in the tie-break, but here, Abhishek gently tapped in a pass from Sunny three minutes before the hooter to give Indian colts a dream victory.
The score was moving fast with full stands supporting the home team, who in fact took the lead through their potent weapon, penalty corner.
Shivam Anand equalized in the 22nd minute, that is a minute after Bangladesh took the lead.
At the stroke of half time, Bangladesh equalized through Mohsin.
On change of sides, playing amidst hot and humid climate, Hardik levelled the score. IN the 50th minute, Dilpreet Singh’s athleticism saw India going up first time (3-2). But nine minutes later, Bangla hero Ashraful sent a scorching shot into the cage to even out.
Ibungo was on spot after set up by Dilpreet and Umar for India to take lead, which survived only two minutes.
When the match was meandering for the tie-break, Abhishek turned out to be the hero.
Pankaj of Indian team was declared Best Goalie of the tournament, while Roman Sarkar of Bangladesh walked away with the Player of the Tournament award.
India’s lanky fullback Hardik Singh was declared best player of the final.