Hockey World Cup 2014: Australia thrash listless India 4-0
India came into their last group match on a high after a victory over Malaysia. Australia were unbeaten in the World Cup and began on an aggressive note.
Indian defence was found wanting in the third minute of the game, when a superb move by Zawelski and Whetton down the right helped Kieran Govers score the first goal. The Aussies had most of the possession and got a penalty corner in the 16th minute. Chris Ciriello scored the second goal with a drag flick and India had plenty to ponder in the early stages of the game.
Australia upped the ante and were rewarded with two penalty corners. Jeremy Hayward scored off the first one, while Ciriello converted his penalty corner for his second goal of the match. India were thwarted by a strong Australian defence from making inroads. Indians got a much-needed breather with seven minutes left in the first half, when Australian captain Mark Knowles was stretched off the field after his collision with SV Sunil. India made a late surge in the first half only to be stopped by the Australian defence. The half time score read 4-0 in favour of Australia.
India had a penalty corner in the third minute of the second half, which was overturned by the video umpire. Australia were close to scoring their 5th goal of the match as a brilliant one-two down the right between Whetton and Turner opened up the Indian defence, only to be denied by a superb save by goalkeeper Sreejesh.
Dharamir came close in giving India their first goal late in the second half, the ball was palmed away by the Aussie goalie. Australia got another penalty corner, but failed to convert as Sreejesh denies an hat-trick for Ciriello.
India created few chances to score and Australia romped home with a comfortable win. The best thing to come out of this World Cup for India has been the performance of goalie Sreejesh. He saved several goals during the tournament.
The only concern for Australia will be injury concerns for Knowles and Dwyer. Australia finish on top of Group A. India with four points in the competition can finish seventh at best.