Indians struggle, but survive

The Indians opened up a flattering 5-1 lead by half time but their opponents fought back brilliantly to score three goals in the second session. But the young Indian side managed to hold on to record their second successive win in the seven-nation tournament.

Shivendra Singh and Sandeep Singh rammed in two goals apiece while SV Sunil and Diwakar Ram chipped in with a goal each in the fast paced contest which saw India frittering away quite a few scoring opportunities. Alexender de Sadeleere, Jerome Trueyns, Thomas Briels and Charles Vandewgheles were the scorers for Belgium.

India now have six points from four matches after losing their first two games. The team started off with a flourish but seemed to lose their rhythm after the interval, with the forwards failing to break through the rival defence. Belgium dominated initially before India scored their first goal through Shivendra Singh in the ninth minute.

Drag-flicker Diwakar Ram netted India’s second goal in the 22nd minute. Two minutes later, de Sadeleere reduced the margin. The second half was dominated by Belgium and pumped in three goals to rattle the Indian camp. However, Shivendra scored his second goal in the 67th minute to ensure full points for the side.