In a match riddled with chances, the Indians squandered most of theirs to lose 2-1 to Pakistan in their Pool B match of the men's hockey event at the Asian Games 2014 in Incheon, South Korea on Thursday.
With Rupinderpal Singh injured for India, the responsibility fell on VR Raghunath, who duly posed a constant threat on the Pakistan goal with his penalty corners. However, the Indian drag flicker could not capitalise, missing a flurry of chances.
After two goalless quarters, Pakistan, who currently hold the title, broke the deadlock, with Muhammad Umar Bhutta scoring from a rebound after Wasqas' shot was saved by goalkeeper Sreejesh.
The Indians soon went on an all-out attack, but remained void of a goal till the fourth and final quarter. Nikin Thimmaiah finally levelled the score for the Indians in the 53rd minute, tapping in a cross sent in by Kothajit.
The match, which was touted to provide a lot of excitement, did not disappoint, at least not for the neutral fans. A lot of technical superiority was exhibited during the game, which was extremely fast paced.
However, minutes after India's equaliser, Pakistan restored their lead with Waqas scoring with a reverse hit, just before the final whistle. This was Pakistan's third win from three games and they moved to the top of Pool B.
