Hockey: Jugraj Singh’s goal in vain as India lose to Australia in third game

The Indian men’s hockey team went down 1-2 against Australia in their neck-to-neck third game of the five match Test series on Wednesday.

Jugraj Singh (41’) was the lone goalscorer for India, while Jeremy Hayward (44’, 49’) netted two goals for the hosts in Perth.

India started the game asserting their dominance through possession, whereas Australia adopted a counter-attacking approach. This strategy paid off for the hosts as they earned the first penalty corner of the match. Despite this opportunity, Indian goalkeeper PR Sreejesh exhibited exceptional reflexes, thwarting Australia's attempt and keeping the score level.

As the match progressed, Australia continued to press forward, earning three consecutive penalty corners in the 10th minute. However, Sreejesh's brilliance between the posts denied the hosts yet again, frustrating their efforts to take the lead.

On the other hand, India showcased their attacking prowess with swift passing and strategic penetrations into the Australian defense, ultimately winning a penalty corner of their own. Despite the opportunity, they couldn't capitalize on it, failing to convert it into a goal. The opening quarter concluded with both teams unable to break the deadlock, leaving the score line unchanged at 0-0.

From the onset of the second quarter, Australia launched a relentless attack, yet India's resilient defense, bolstered by goalkeeper...

Read more