Sultan Azlan Shah Hockey: India Hold Korea to 2-2 Draw

India started off on a positive note in the Azlan Shah Cup, drawing their first match against a better-ranked South Korea in Ipoh, Malaysia.(Highlights)

Dominating the first half, India looked promising having more control of the ball and creating more chances. The first cheer, however, came when Nikkin Thimmaiah, flicked a pass off V.R. Raghunath at the goalmouth.

In the second quarter, Ramandeep Singh wasted a golden chance after he failed to trap a cross, despite standing unmarked near the goalmouth.

Minutes later, a goof-up by Nikkin Thimmaiah gave the Koreans two back to back penalty corners, while earning a green card for himself. South Korea utilized the opportunity well and scored the equalizer through Hyesung Hyun.

As the game reached the last quarter, the South Koreans managed a lead after Seunghoon Lee sent the ball inside the net off a cross sent by Jun Jung Lee.

India, who had so far not got a single penalty corner from the match, doubled their effort and managed a penalty corner with four minutes to go for the final hooter.

Sensing the importance of the situation, experienced drag-flicker, V.R. Raghunath, made no mistake as he flicked the ball to the top left.

Coach Paul van Ass, who is on his first assignment with the team at the Azlan Shah said he was satisfied with the performance but not the result.

"I am satisfied with the manner of play but not with the result. The second goal that Korea scored should not have happen, especially when there are two players attacking against four defenders and a goalkeeper. Also, we had two chances to score which we missed. It is a good start but there is much more improvements to be made," he said.

India will face the New Zealand in the next match.