Indian hockey’s road to redemption
The Indian men's hockey team overturned a 1-3 deficit on Thursday to earn its first Olympic medal in 41 years with a 5-4 win over Germany. A look at the highlights of India’s memorable campaign
DRAG-FLICK POWER
Drag-flickers HARMANPREET SINGH (6) and RUPINDER PAL SINGH (4) were India's top scorers. Against Germany, Harmanpreet helped India level the score at 3-3 with a drag-flick.
SUPER STRIKES
For the connoisseurs, the beauty of hockey is in field goals. Hardik Singh’s 3rd goal against Great Britain was probably one of the best. Britain, trailing 1-2, were desperate for the equaliser when Hardik set off on solo run and slotted home. It was the knock-out blow.
Mandeep Singh’s goal against Belgium gave India the lead. He traps a cross from Amit Rohidas, and, with his back to goal, slaps a brilliant tomahawk past Vincent Vanasch, the world's best keeper.
LEADING FROM THE FRONT
Marked as the heir to Sardar Singh’s role of marshalling the India midfield, captain Manpreet Singh has done his idol proud. His presence in the field can be gauged from the fact that India conceded two goals against Belgium in a span of three minutes Manpreet was out on a green card.
SREEJESH, THE DENIER
Indian hockey followers had their hearts in their mouth when the team conceded a penalty corner in the dying seconds on Thursday. Goalkeeper PR Sreejesh stood tall to deny Germany. He had nine saves in the game, but was in stellar form throughout
“I know how much hockey means to India and I am privileged to help play a part in that. It means a lot after being in quarantine for the last eight out of 16 months.”
— GRAHAM REID, India coach from 2019