Joel rintala

Hockey India: The Indian men’s hockey team went down 1-5 against Australia in their opening game of the five-match Test series here. Tim Brand (3’), Tom Wickham (20’, 38’), Joel Rintala (37’), and Flynn Ogilvie (57’) were the goal scorers for the hosts, while Gurjant Singh (47’) netted the solitary goal for India.

In the opening quarter, India initiated a strategy centred on ball possession and dictating the game's pace. However, despite their efforts, it was Australia that seized an early advantage in the match. Tim Brand (3’) broke through India's defense on a swift counterattack, finding the back of the net and putting Australia in the lead. Responding to the setback, India intensified their offensive manoeuvres, mounting pressure on the hosts.

Australia, in turn, ramped up their attacks, earning two consecutive penalty corners. Nevertheless, India's goalkeeper P.R. Sreejesh exhibited remarkable skills, thwarting Australia's attempts to widen their lead with two outstanding saves. Meanwhile, the Indian team penetrated Australia’s defence and even won a penalty corner but couldn’t capitalise on it. The first quarter ended with Australia having a 1-0 lead.