Johor Bahru, 25 October 2024: In a thrilling encounter at the ongoing Sultan of Johor Cup, the India Colts held New Zealand to a pulsating 3-3 draw in their final round-robin match. Gurjot Singh (6’), Rohit (17’), and Talem Priyobarta (60’) netted for India, while Jonty Elmes scored a remarkable hat-trick for New Zealand with goals in the 17th, 32nd, and 45th minutes through dragflicks.
Despite maintaining their lead at the top of the points table with 10 points, India’s fate in the tournament now hinges on the outcomes of two crucial matches later today. Both Great Britain and Australia, who are close behind India in the standings, face Japan and Malaysia respectively. The results of these games will determine if India advances to the final.
India’s Early Momentum
India made a strong start to the match, with Gurjot Singh giving the team an early lead in the 6th minute. After an initial save by the New Zealand goalkeeper, Gurjot remained composed and capitalized on the rebound, lofting the ball into the net to put India ahead 1-0. Just minutes later, India had the opportunity to double their lead through back-to-back penalty corners, but New Zealand’s goalkeeper was up to the task, denying the chances.
While New Zealand responded with attacking intent, India’s defense held firm with Rosan Kujur leading a resolute backline to keep the Kiwis at bay. However, New Zealand broke through in the 17th minute, with Jonty Elmes equalizing for the Kiwis. India wasted no time in regaining the lead, as Rohit converted a penalty corner in the same minute to restore a 2-1 advantage.
Elmes’ Hat-Trick Causes Concern for India
As the match progressed, both teams showcased high-paced hockey, creating numerous opportunities. India had multiple penalty corners in the second quarter but failed to capitalize, allowing New Zealand to remain within striking distance. The turning point came in the third quarter when Elmes struck twice more, converting penalty corners in the 32nd and 45th minutes to complete his hat-trick and give New Zealand a 3-2 lead.
India’s troubles with penalty corner conversions continued into the fourth quarter, as they missed another chance to level the score early in the final period. New Zealand, buoyed by their lead, launched several dangerous counter-attacks, but India’s defense held firm, knowing that conceding another goal could spell the end of their hopes for a place in the final.
Late Drama as India Snatches a Draw
As the clock ticked down, India refused to give up. With just 90 seconds remaining, India earned a crucial penalty corner, providing them one last opportunity to salvage the match. This time, India executed a perfect variation, with Talem Priyobarta finding the back of the net to secure a dramatic 3-3 draw.
Looking Ahead
With this result, India finished their round-robin campaign with 10 points, but their place in the final is not yet guaranteed. Great Britain and Australia, both in contention for a spot in the final, are set to play later today against Japan and Malaysia, respectively. The outcomes of these matches will determine whether India’s hard-fought draw will be enough to see them through to the final.
Stay tuned to BOSI for more updates as we track the results and India’s fate in this thrilling edition of the Sultan of Johor Cup!
