In the game played at a furious pace, Pakistan had the first chance in the very first minute when they earned a penalty corner. Drag-flick expert Kashif Ali’s effort, however, was saved. That was the beginning of a harrowing 70 minutes for Ali, who saw four of his five strikes wasted.

It was India’s turn to go on the offensive thereafter, and the hosts struck first when Roshan Minz completed a one-two with Gurvinder Singh Chandi and slotted the ball in between Pakistan goalkeeper Imran Shah’s legs.

The Indian forward line, off-colour so far in the tournament despite the strong midfield, was unstoppable. Gurbaj Singh’s perfect passes, Mandeep Antil’s speedy runs, Chandi’s hits and Diwakar Ram and Innocent Kullu’s tackling — it all worked. Pakistan’s over-dependence on penalty corners did them in.

“Sreejesh had seen videos of Kashif repeatedly, and managed to save a couple of shots today. That made the difference,” India coach AK Bansal said.

The second half’s game was a style India and Pakistan are known for, but something that hasn’t been seen for a long time. Open chances, repeated attacks, skilled stickwork — it was all there. India went 2-0 up when Diwakar converted a penalty corner in the 38th minute, and though Pakistan managed to pull one back four minutes later, it was not their day. Diwakar’s second goal in the 47th minute put things beyond the three-time champions.

“More than any planning or tactics, it is a question of holding up under pressure against Pakistan. The team that managed to do so won,” said Bansal.

... contd.