Johor Cup Hockey: With a hat-trick from Amandeep Lakra, the Indian junior men’s hockey team stunned New Zealand 6-2 on Monday to advance to the Sultan of Johor Cup semifinals in Johor Bahru, keeping them on track to retain their title. Luke Aldred (29th, 60th) scored a brace for New Zealand, while Lakra (2nd, 7th, 35th), Arun Sahani (12th, 53rd), and Poovanna Chandura Boby (52nd) registered on the scoresheet for India. India got off to a strong start and was awarded a PC in the first minute of play. Lakra took full advantage of the early opportunity, deftly sending the ball past New Zealand keeper Luke Elmes to give his team a reassuring 1-0 lead in the second minute.
With India gaining another PC in the seventh minute, the pressure on New Zealand increased in the moments that followed.
Once more, Lakra took the field and delivered a powerful flip that doubled India’s lead. The goal came from a Sahani cross from the left side that deflected off Luke Elmes and into the net in the 12th minute, demonstrating the reigning champions’ continued pressure on New Zealand’s defense.
India began the second quarter with a commanding 3-0 lead. Uttam Singh led India’s attack on the forward line and set up a brilliant one-on-one tackle with the goalie.
Still, he couldn’t convince Elmes otherwise.
After making several attempts to get back into the game later in the quarter, Luke Aldred’s excellent PC goal in the 29th minute gave New Zealand their much-needed opening goal.
India began the third quarter on the offensive. They were rewarded for their efforts with a PC, and Lakra scored his third to complete an incredible hat-trick.
With a 4-1 advantage, the goal in the 35th minute placed India in control.
With hopes of winning the game back, New Zealand started the final quarter, but the Indian defense held firm.
India produced significant opportunities that resulted in two additional goals this quarter. India’s lead increased to 6-1 after Arun Sahani scored his second goal in the 53rd minute, following Poovanna’s fifth goal from a PC in the 52nd.
A defensive mistake by India gave New Zealand one more chance to score, and Luke Aldred made sure he was on target by flicking the ball past Mohith with aplomb with a few seconds remaining in the match.
