Bangalore: The Indian men’s hockey team registered their second successive victory against New Zealand, beating the visitors 3-1 to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match Test series at the SAI campus here, Saturday. Rupinder Pal Singh, SV Sunil and Mandeep Singh scored for the hosts while Stephen Jenness pulled one back for the Black Sticks.
With Sunil and Mandeep forming a deadly attacking duo, the Kiwis were always on the backfoot. In the very first minute, Sunil’s hit was blocked by the New Zealand goalkeeper Richard Joyce. India also earned two penalty corners, but failed to the convert.
Early into the second quarter, Sunil earned India their third PC and Rupinder Pal was there at hand to strike after a lovely injection from Manpreet Singh.
In the 24th minute, Jenness caught the Indian defence off guard when he pierced through the striking circle. Goalie PR Sreejesh rushed out of his charge, but Jenness rounded him and pushed the ball into the net for the equaliser.
India restored their lead with a splendid field goal in the 27th minute by Sunil after the initial spadework had been done by Simranjeet Singh.
After a barren third quarter, India put the issue beyond doubt in the 56th minute. Sunil made a brilliant run down the right and his cross was deflected into the net by Mandeep. They had another penalty corner immediately after, but could not convert.