Asia Cup Hockey: Korea 4-3 India - it's nerves, yet again
Indian players celebrate a goal against South Korea during their finals match of the Asia Cup 2013 in Ipoh, Malaysia on September 1, 2013. South Korea defeated India 4-3. (Getty Images)
India were unable to hold on yet again, as they conceded a late, late goal to hand Korea the Asia Cup, in quite contrary fashion with which they played throughout the game.
In what was beautiful precursor to the final, it was, indeed, an encouraging sight to watch both national anthems being played with a trace of rains in the background.
Korea, ranked 6th in the world, were quick out of the blocks and secured the first goal of the match from a penalty corner in the 28th minute. Jang Jong Hyun, Korea’s celebrated drag-flicker, became the leading goal scorer of the tournament with that strike.
Disappointing as it was for Indian supporters to find the team go down just before the half-time whistle; it was only a teaser to the stooping morale that was to come the very next minute.
Korea scored again, through You Hyo Sik. And that is how both teams entered the dressing room: Korea 2, India 0.
India, however, came out fighting after the break, with full faith in their ability. And that’s what got them their first goal in the 48th minute, through Rupinderpal Singh.
The 55th minute brought more glory as Nikkin Thimmaiah scored India’s second. Korea 2, India 2. Match on.
With both teams on the verge of qualifying for next year’s World Cup, they realised the need to hold their guns. They were organised in defence and yet, pressed enough in attack to try and sneak ahead.
While the Koreans attempted to do so, the two Indian goals had made them rather cautious in approach. India, on the contrary, seemed enlivened and the constant pressure led to their third.India 3, Korea 2.
Mandeep Singh was the man for India, this time. Yet, the match was suggestively not over as Korea managed to gain a penalty stroke in the 57th minute. Under a little pressure, Nam Hyun Woo did not miss the chance to get Korea back into the game.
Both teams went on, trying to press each other and get that ball in the back of the net. It was in the end (the 67th minute) that Korea found their moment of glory. Kang Moon Kweon was the one who got sent the ball past the goal line… and the goalie.
Shortly, the final whistle blew. And once again, as it has occurred on countless occasions before, Indian hearts sank at the edge of full-time.
India’s efforts, however, cannot be taken away from them in spite of what the scorecard read; a commendable effort indeed, as they showed great character to come back from 2-0 down.
India has a great lot it can do in the sport, and working towards it irrespectively is what it needs.
On the other side, Pakistan claimed the bronze medal, defeating Malaysia 3 goals to 1.