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India Dominates Japan in Asian Games Hockey
Many believe that hockey in the Asian Games is realistically a two-team competition, as seen in recent editions. However, the lesser teams have surprised us when least expected.
When China scored three goals in the last eight minutes of the match, they shocked former champions South Korea on Thursday. The Indian men’s squad, who saw the results of Indian complacency during the Jakarta 2018 semifinals, was reminded of this.
Mandeep Singh and Abhishek showcased a brilliant one-two play, resulting in India’s third goal. This display demonstrated India’s control in their first significant test against defending champions Japan.
The Indian forwards executed the play with precision, leaving the goalkeeper deceived. The defense remained organized and structured throughout the game. Harmanpreet effectively shifted between roles as a defender and an attacking midfielder.
Vivek Sagar Prasad frequently played in the defensive position. Japan only managed one penalty corner in the initial 30 minutes. Everything observed on Thursday reflected a well-thought-out plan.
Complacency costs India a clean sheet
Until the 56th minute, the game followed that pattern. Three injuries during the game reduced Japan’s quicksilver feet’ strength and pace. But it also coincided with India “switching off.”
Japan scored two goals in the last five minutes to take the dominance factor out of the scoreline. Abhishek had a brace, and Mandeep and Amit Rohidas struck for India.
The Japanese only looked sharper when the final hooter sounded. Did the complacency that showed up have a role because of the one-way traffic of 32 goals combined in wins over Uzbekistan and Singapore? Vice-captain Hardik more or less agreed.
India’s hockey team learns from complacency scare in win over Japan
“I guess we were getting easy because we were 4-0 up and we knew that they are not going to score four goals. But we should strive for a clean-sheet. That gives confidence to goalkeepers as well. That’s what champion teams are all about. If they are winning 4-0, they are keen to score another goal. That’s the mindset we need,” stated Hardik after the match. The squad is working on a 70-30 strategy, which the offensive midfielder offered as an intriguing learning.
“We have talked about it (complacency). In this Asian Games, 70% of the game is on us. The rest 30% is when opponents get turnovers or when we get a little easy. The other team can take advantage of that. We have to keep in mind that inside the circle we shouldn’t switch off,” he stated.
Coach Craig Fulton shared his learnings. Hardik admitted it was a relief to win their first competitive game at the 19th Asian Games, beating the 2018 gold medallists.
“The transition from attack to defence needs to be a little faster,” said Hardik, while indicating to retain possession, the coach. “Just (need to focus on) phases of possession,” Fulton commented while indicating the game’s last few seconds.
“We don’t need to score three goals with 4-0 up and five minutes to go, so it’s just something we need to address,” stated the coach. Pakistan will play India next on September 30.
My name is Krishanu Das the founder of the Sports Dribble.
I am Accountant by profession but a Sports Blogger by passion.
I am passionate about sharing my all knowledge and experiences of sports, with my readers and every sports enthusiast.
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