KARACHI: Following an impressive 1-0 win over China, Pakistan staged a much better show to register a 2-2 draw with archrivals India in their second match of the of the Junior Asia Cup hockey tournament in Malacca, Malaysia.
The young brigade, which missed several scoring chances against China, looked a better side as they dominated most of the game with an aggressive display against the defending champions.
Mohammad Dilber’s reverse hit found the target giving Pakistan an early lead. India’s attempt to draw level resulted in a heated phase of play with a green card being issued to Mohammad Tauseeq. However, the score soon became 1-1 with Amit Rohidas finding the net in the 24th minute.
After the break, Pakistan went ahead through a penalty corner with Mohammad Irfan getting his name included in the scoresheet with a 41st-minute strike.
Pakistan contained their archrivals before India levelled again in the 60th minute.
Pakistan head coach Rana Mujahid was satisfied with the team’s performance. “We lost 5-1 when we last played against India,” Mujahid told The Express Tribune from Malacca. “The positive thing is that we dominated the match and took the lead twice. Our performance today will boost our confidence for the rest of the tournament.”
Pakistan take on Sri Lanka today in their last group match and a win will ensure them a place in the semi-finals.
Published in The Express Tribune, May 7th, 2012.
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