K. ARUMUGAM

In what can be described as the classic comeback witnessed in the recent times, India, down 1-3 in the first quarter, pulled up its socks in time to control the damage and then went on a rampage into the rival citadel to romp home a stunning 7-4 victory over New Zealand in the repeat FIH Pro-league encounter today in Bhubaneswar.

Today’s contest is not only a classic for a comeback feat, but also how a strong midfield can change the fortunes. When India was down 1-3 – what with New Zealander striking with more goals on fewer chances – its pivot Manpreet Singh, his clever passes and slaps that set up India to neutralize the lead within four minutes from 1-3 down. Thereafter, it was left to  another centre-half Hardik Singh, who was fittingly declared as Man of the Match later, to  send an unending crisp, defence spiliting  passes and selfless feeds that unnerved the Kiwis.

On the other side, forward Kartik Selvam, not just stopped a Manpreet’s slap before whacking from the centre of the circle to reduce the rival’s lead, but also enacted a heartwarming effort that gave him his second goal.

Hadik was the Best player of the match

Deep defender was trying to send a high ball which he just topped on jumping and then with the godsend ball sidestepped the onrushing goalie to send the ball inside the empty cage. His two goals must rank not only his best but the game’s too.

India domination, which was also conspicuous in the first quarter but not with the scoreboard, was such that that it far exceeded the visitors in every parameter of the game. India got double the number of penalty corners (11 to 5), more than double of circle entries (29 to 13), double of shots at goals and 12 percent more ball possession!

However, there was no inkling what was in store, especially when India seemed at seas with whatever they did in the first quarter – ever-reliable Surender fumbling in front of their goal, balls not stopped properly in two of the three penalty corners etc. But at the same time, despite making fewer forays into the circle, New Zealand was utilizing its chances. Simon Child’s opener, Sam Lane’s half volley whack (2-1), Jake Smith’s close-range deflection (3-1) stood out glaringly despite Harmanpreet Singh striking an equalizer in his third penalty corner try (1-1).

Then came the gems from Manpreet Singh that saw the team level 3-3.

What transformed after this is unbelievable. India took the charge and made their rival look scratching for moves.