34 goals, 20 of them in the second half, five of the six matches throwing up outright results marked the first day of Rio Men’s hockey.

Rio hockey event has started with enthusiasm. The beautifully conceived Deodora stadium witnessed keen contests. Though many matches went the way predicted, the Rio opening day threw up interesting insights.

Except last match held on each turf for men’s the others proved tough irrespective of whose name figured winner on the scoreboard.

Ireland’s fought resolutely against India. New Zealand’s resolve to fight it out till the last seconds despite goals getting disallowed against traditional foe Australia, have won many hearts.

One contest that catches all eyes is the one between Belgium and Great Britain.

It was supposed to be on even keel, which it was still the lemon time, but the Red Lions turned the tide in the second session.

Two goals in two minutes each by Tanguy Cosyns
Simon Gougnard paving way for 4-1 rout.

If Belgium can overwhelm well-oiled side as British, they can even upset Australia in the days to come.

On the other pool, Argentina proved why it should be taken seriously.

The Netherlanders were sitting pretty with 3-1 lead till the end of third quarters, but Lucas Villa and veteran Matias Pardes had different ideas. The game ended 3-3.

The opening match is the indicators as to how Rio event will progress.

India was on sitting pretty with three penalty corners goal till couple of minutes before the end of third quarters.

Ireland, playing first time the Olympics after ten decades, surprised with vastly improved thrusts. India was forced to concede penalty corners at drop of hat, but their goalie and defence somehow averted the third goal that would have robbed them off two vital points. India managed last three penalty corners without damage.

In the same pool, Germany rode like a colossus against Canada while Spain, lucky to have the hosts on the table, savoured seven times.

Barring the above two, all other matches were tight and fought till the last seconds.

Interesting week ahead before teams identified for the quarterfinals.