Indian Jr Men’s Hockey Team in Final of Sultan Johor Cup

Johor Bahru: The Indian junior men’s hockey team today sealed their berth in the final of the 9th Sultan of Johor Cup after an emphatic 5-1 victory over Australia at the Taman Daya Hockey Stadium here on Wednesday.

The clinical performance saw goals from Shilanand Lakra (26', 29'), Dilpreet Singh (44'), Gursahibjit Singh (48') and Mandeep Mor (50').

India had a first sight of goal in the opening minute courtesy of an Australian mistake. A misjudgement off an aerial ball meant Gursahibjit was clear on goal in the circle.

Robert Maclennan was quick to come off his line though and block the angles, before clearing the ball to safety. For the rest of the quarter, both teams wrestled for control in midfield, the Aussies earning the first PC of the game in the eighth minute, a mistrap putting paid to their chances to score.

Early in the second quarter, Prashant Chauhan was called into action. Off a swift attack, Michael Francis’ shot was deflected by Sam McCulloch towards goal.

In the 44th minute, Dilpreet Singh had his reward for his brilliance throughout the game. This time the pass came from Gursahibjit Singh, finding Dilpreet at the base of the circle. Dilpreet turned, swerved and unleashed a superb reverse hit into the far corner to give India a 3-0 lead. It was one they took into the final break.

India will face Great Britain in their final round-robin league-stage match in Johor Bahru on October 18. IANS

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