The junior Indian hockey team has achieved a noteworthy victory in their tour opener in Antwerp, Belgium, securing an impressive 2-2 (4-2 SO) triumph over Belgium. In this game, the vice-captain, Shardanand Tiwari played a pivotal role, scoring two goals to lead the Indian colts to success.
The Indian junior men’s hockey squad swiftly asserted their dominance, with Shardanand Tiwari finding the net early in the game with a penalty stroke. The team effectively maintained their momentum throughout the first quarter, ensuring they held on to their lead heading into the break.
In the second quarter, Shardanand Tiwari returned to the scoresheet, doubling the team’s lead with yet another penalty stroke. As the first half came to a close, the visitors found themselves with a comfortable 2-0 advantage.
Although Belgium managed to convert a penalty corner early in the third quarter, narrowing the goal deficit to just one, no further goals were scored in the quarter, with the score reading 2-1 in favour of the Indian junior men’s hockey team at the end of the third quarter.
Despite the Indian Colts holding a one-goal lead going into the final quarter, Belgium continued to apply pressure, leaving the outcome uncertain. In the dying minutes of the game, the Belgians converted yet another penalty corner to draw level. With no further goals in regulation time, the game was forced into a shootout.
The Indian Colts performed exceptionally well in the shootout, with Gurjot Singh, Sourabh Anand Kushwaha, Dilraj Singh, and Manmeet Singh stepping up to score, while goalkeeper Prince Deep Singh produced two remarkable saves. This ultimately led to a 4-2 victory in the shootout, marking a triumphant start to their European tour.
Next, the Indian Junior Men’s team is scheduled to face Belgium in Breda, Netherlands on May 22. With their confidence running high after this win, the team will be looking to maintain their winning momentum as they continue their campaign in Europe.
This victory serves as a promising start for the Indian junior hockey team as they aim to make a lasting impression in Europe. With skillful performances and strong teamwork, they are poised to make a significant impact throughout the duration of the tour.
As the team looks ahead to their upcoming fixtures, their successful start in Belgium is sure to provide them with the motivation and confidence needed to tackle the challenges that lie ahead. With their sights set on further victories, the Indian Junior Men’s squad is primed to leave a lasting impression on the European stage.