India was defeated again in their 2nd match the Champions trophy against Argentina at the Kalinga Stadium, Bhuvneshwar here today. India played very well in the first three quarters of the match but lost out on the stamina, strength and agility of Argentina team in the final quarter. The match was watched by a full capacity crowd at the stadium.
In the first quarter Argentina began well by trying a goal on the Indian post but was well wide off the goal. After that India made lots of positive moves but was not able to convert the chances into goal. There were two chances in 6th minute for the Indians. In the 7th minute India tried another goal but was not able to convert the chance. In the 14th minute Argentina tried a goal but Sreejesh saved a goal.
In the first minute of second quarter Argentina was awarded a penalty corner but they were not able to stop the ball on the’ D’. From then onwards India dominated the play. There were too many chances for India to convert into goals. India took the lead in 14 minutes and 4 second when a player put a long ball and Akashdeep converted the goal. Argentina leveled the score immediately leveling at 1-1 at the end of the half time.
In the third quarter India missed two more chances in 2 .05 and 5th minutes. India took lead in 6. 05 minutes when Gurjinder converted a penalty corner into a goal. Argentina leveled the score at 2-2 when Lopez deflected the shot from striker again immediately thereafter. In the 11.25 minutes India was awarded a penalty corner, raised lot of cheer hopes but was disallowed by the video umpire for the disappointment of the crowd..
In the 4th quarter India missed a chance in the 3rd minute. Argentina took a lead in 4th minute when Marceli deflected a shot and there was no defender for the Indian. In 13.15 minute Argentina sealed the deal with powerful shot. Argentina won the match by 4-2.
India’s performance was hampered by lack strength, defense and lack of coordination particularly in the fourth quarter. India plays another tough opponent Holland on Tuesday the 9th December.
Image Courtesy: AFP Image