Hockey India
A very dominant Indian side which looked untouchable in the Asian games crashed out in the semi-finals to a nippy Malaysian side. It was the golden goal rule that ruined Indian hopes of reaching the finals. Adding insult to injury was the second semi-final where Pakistan, the team India beat in the group stage, entered the finals after 20 years by defeating South Korea 4-3 on penalties. This defeat proves that ‘bad luck comes only when it is least expected’. India has not only lost the semi-final but has also lost the opportunity to directly qualify for London Olympics.
Malaysia looked committed and had a very positive game on display. India was the dominant team and it never seemed like they would give away this opportunity. But Malaysia had nothing to lose and tried to create opportunities that can be capitalized into goals…..they succeeded very well! The minnows were not intimidated by the fierce attack of Indian forwards and defended really well.
The absence of Sandeep Singh in the second half due to injury hit India very badly. The match was a roller-coaster ride and was evenly matched in the second half. Malaysia utilized their fast play into counter attacks and managed to equalize a 3-2 deficit in the 64th minute via a penalty corner. The second Malaysian goal was a mistake by the referee as video replays showed that it was bad judgment. That decision and Sandeep Singh’s absence acted as catalyst to boost Malaysian hopes and slow down India’s momentum. The game changed right there.
Shivendra Singh from the right flank and Tushar Khandekar in the circle were threatening the Malaysian goal throughout the match. On the other hand Subramaniam, Malaysian goal-keeper of Indian origin, was very vigilant on the goal post. As far as attack was concerned, the Malaysians were quick on the break but they intended on doing so for earning penalty corners. Although their first goal was a brilliant solo field effort by Abdul Jamil; it was evident that they wanted penalties. Three of their four goals were scored from penalty corners.
Even the golden goal that decided India’s fate for a 3rd or 4th position was scored in a penalty corner. India is now in a precarious position. Not assured of a medal and no direct qualification for the Olympics which they couldn’t qualify for in 2008. Coach Harinder Singh has taken responsibility of the loss and has already resigned as the Indian coach. Indian hockey team is in a pickle and it will need a miracle to get back to normalcy.
Tags: Asian Games, Asian Games 2010, Hockey, Hockey India, India, Indian Sports, London Olympics, Malaysia, Sports, Sports India
