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New Zealand registered their second win in as many matches after beating India 2-1 in Ipoh.
The last time India locked horns with New Zealand on the international stage eight months back, it was a humdinger of a contest as India clawed their way after trailing by two early goals to pull off a stunning 3-2 victory in the semifinals of the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games. On Monday, one witnessed a tight encounter where no quarter was given and no quarter was asked for. And it was New Zealand who prevailed over India 2-1 courtesy a late Andy Hayward penalty corner goal to chalk up their second win on the trot.
India, who just about managed to hold Korea 2-2 in their tournament opener, were up against the Black Sticks side, who hit the high notes in their opener against hosts Malaysia, winning in a facile manner 4-2. And the New Zealand outfit did not make it easy for India, who were looking to sniff an early goal. Goals eluded both teams as the half-time scoreline read 0-0.
It was the Black Sticks who broke the logjam and scored in the third quarter through Simon Child, thus throwing the onus of mounting a fightback on India. The Paul Van Ass-coached side equalized in the third quarter itself through Akashdeep Singh – the youngster, who scored the match-winner against New Zealand in the semifinals of the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games.
Much was anticipated in the final quarter and it required both teams to handle their nerves and go all out for the match-winner. Andy Hayward helped New Zealand regainthe lead with six minutes remaining for the final hooter and that strike was enough to ensure India remained winless after two games.
India next play hosts Malaysia on Wednesday after a rest day on Tuesday.
