Epoh, Mar 9 (UNI) ) Indian Hockey Team needed a big win against Ireland to play in the finals of the 27th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup hockey tournament, but India lost its half-time on Friday and was trounced by Ireland 2-3.
India in its previous match raised hopes by defeating the hosts Malaysia 5-1, but Ireland vanished India's hopes with their comeback in this match. Of five match, it was the third defeat of India.
Now India is in fifth position with four points.
The Indian team, who got third place in the last tournament, will now have to compete against Ireland for fifth position. Ireland lost their previous four matches. But managed to defeat India in this match.
India has lost 2-3 from the Olympic champions in Argentina, 2-4 from world champions Australia, and now 2-3 by Ireland, in the tournament. While the match was draw to a 1-1 against defending champion England. India got the only victory from Malaysia, which they defeated 5-1 on Wednesday.
After a big win over Malaysia, it seemed that the Indian team has made a comeback and against Ireland they made a 2-1 lead in the 26th minute.
Ramandeep Singh scored a goal in the 10th minute,which was later equalised by the Ireland's Shane O'Donog, who scored a field goal in the 24th minute.
But two minutes later, India found a way to regain their lead by converting another penalty corner into the goal. Amit Rohidas scored the goal to give India 2-1 lead at half time.
India tried to create chances in the final quarter but failed to go past a cautious Irish defence. Ireland beat India 3-2. With the defeat against Ireland, India will not play in the gold medal match of the tournament.
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