Battle of equals as India face Korea

Ipoh (Malaysia), May 8: Back in the groove with a thumping victory over archrivals Pakistan, India will seek to continue their winning momentum when they take on Korea in their third league match of the Azlan Shah Cup hockey tournament here on Sunday.

India defeated Pakistan 4-2 to register their first win in the tournament on Friday after a dismal show in their opening match against China where they needed a goal, 17 seconds from the hooter, to snatch a 1-1 draw.

The Koreans, however, cannot afford to be complacent on Sunday as after their shocking 1-1 draw against hosts Malaysia on Friday. The nimble-footed Koreans would be desperate to return to winning ways.
Korea started their campaign in style, outclassing Egypt 6-0 in their tournament opener but failed to live up to expectation and slumped to an unexpected draw.

India’s national coach Harendra Singh had already warned the players not to get carried away after the Pakistan win.

“Do not read much into the win over Pakistan for there are many areas we need to work and improve upon. The Koreans are a fast and skillful side and it will be an interesting match given the fact that both teams have dropped two points from drawn matches,” Harendra said.

With a win and draw from their two outings, India and Korea have four points each but the Koreans are atop the points table with a better goal difference. — PTI