The Indian junior men’s hockey team commenced their European tour with an exceptional 2-2 (4-2 SO) triumph over Belgium in Antwerp, Belgium. Vice-Captain Shardanand Tiwari exhibited superb skill, securing two goals for the Indian colts.
Early in the game, vice-captain Shardanand Tiwari propelled the Indian junior men’s hockey team into the lead by scoring a penalty stroke in the 3rd minute. The team maintained their momentum throughout the first quarter, steadfastly retaining their lead as they entered the break.
Shardanand Tiwari made another significant contribution in the second quarter, extending the team’s lead to 2-0 with yet another penalty stroke in the 27th minute.
Belgium managed to narrow the goal deficit to one by converting a penalty corner early in the third quarter. However, the Indian junior men’s hockey team maintained a 2-1 lead as the third quarter concluded.
As the game approached its conclusion, Belgium continued to apply pressure, leaving the Indian Colts with little breathing room. In the closing minutes, the Belgians successfully converted another penalty corner, levelling the score at 2-2 as regular time expired, leading to a shootout.
The Indian Colts emerged victorious in the penalty shootout, with Gurjot Singh, Sourabh Anand Kushwaha, Dilraj Singh, and Manmeet Singh all finding the net, and goalkeeper Prince Deep Singh making two vital saves. Their outstanding performance in the shootout resulted in a 4-2 win, marking a successful start to their Europe tour.
The Indian Junior Men’s team is scheduled to encounter Belgium once again in Breda, Netherlands on May 22. (ANI)
This triumph establishes a positive tone for the Indian junior hockey team at the beginning of their European tour. With standout performances from players like Shardanand Tiwari and a remarkable display of teamwork, the Indian colts have commenced their quest for international success with promise.
As the team progresses through their European tour, fans eagerly await their upcoming matches, hoping for more thrilling performances and victories from the talented Indian junior hockey team.