India too good for Malaysia

It was a game that saw India dominating for large parts, and then almost gifting it away with occasional lapses in concentration. The sluggishness was still there and India’s first goal came only in the 27th minute, after having entered the opposition’s striking circle almost half a dozen times. Pramod Kumar was perfectly positioned in front of the goalmouth to deflect a free hit in.

Chances go abegging

But before that, India, on the offensive from the outset, wasted two penalty corners — both saved by Malaysian goalkeeper Abdul Hakim Adnan — even as Malaysia kept looking for opportunities through counter attacks. But for such moments, few and far between, it was India’s game all the way.

Charged up after the first goal, India didn’t have to wait for long for the second and in the 29th minute, drag-flicker Diwakar Ram made no mistake, sending the ball at the back of the net to double the lead.

But if one thought India would go on a goal rush post-break, it was not to be. Instead, Malaysia pulled one back, when Khairil Anuar Mohammad Isa converted their fifth penalty corner — fourth in a row —third minute into the second half.

Three minutes later, India converted another penalty corner to increase the margin to two goals again. Thereafter, the game was played on only one half of the turf — Malaysia’s. The Indian forwards kept threatening to pump in at least half a dozen more, but all they could manage was to come close and then drift away.

On way to semis

With six points, India currently top Group A, and look all set to make it to the semi-finals, but for an upset loss to Singapore in their last league match. Japan are second with three points, courtesy their win against Singapore, while Malaysia and Singapore have a point apiece.

On the flip side, even after Saturday’s convincing win, there are concerns defending champions India need to address as they are on a collision course either with Pakistan or South Korea in the semi-finals. Both the teams have played brilliantly so far and appear to be strong contenders for the title.

India’s attack is still iffy and their finishing leaves a lot to be desired.

“One can’t score off every chance but we did play much better than yesterday,” said Bansal. Be that as it may, they can’t afford to miss these many chances against stronger opponents.

In the other Group A match, Singapore, who had surprisingly held Malaysia on Friday, were handed a 9-1 thrashing by Japan. For the winners, Kenji Kitazato, Harayuki Fujiyoshi scored a brace each while Hiroshi Shirawa, Kenta Tanaka, Taisuke Ito, Ryohei Kawai and Daisuke Suzuki had one apiece against their name.