India Beats Pakistan 7-1 in Hockey Pro League, Completes Dominant Double
The Indian men's hockey team scored a comprehensive 7-1 victory over Pakistan in the FIH Pro League London leg at Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre on Friday. The win completed a double over their arch-rivals in the tournament.
Pakistan took an early lead in the 13th minute through a penalty corner drag-flick by captain Abu Bakar Mahmood. India responded strongly in the second quarter, with Sukhjeet Singh deflecting a Harmanpreet Singh drag-flick in the 20th minute to level the score. Harmanpreet then put India ahead with another powerful drag-flick in the 26th minute.
India dominated the third quarter, scoring three goals in quick succession. Hardik Singh converted a penalty stroke in the 34th minute, and Jugraj Singh added a field goal with a tomahawk finish in the 35th minute. Abhishek scored from close range in the 41st minute, and Raj Kumar Pal tapped in a rebound in the 44th minute to make it 6-1. Dilpreet Singh completed the scoring in the 54th minute with a well-worked team goal.
Pakistan pressed for goals in the final quarter, earning two penalty corners, but veteran Indian defender Manpreet Singh made crucial blocks to preserve the margin. Hardik Singh was named Player of the Match for his midfield performance.
The victory gave India all three points from the match, following their 4-3 win in the original fixture. India's next match in the Pro League is scheduled against Australia.
