Rupinder welcomes HIL GC’s decision to take over UP Rudras
UP Rudras had earlier pulled out of the league citing financial sustainability issues, prompting the Governing Council to step in and manage the team until a new owner is found.
Rupinder Pal Singh and debutant Vivek Sagar Prasad struck a brace each as the Indian men’s hockey team thrashed Japan 6-0 in its opening match of the double-leg Four Nations Invitational Tournament here on Wednesday.
Apart from Rupinder (7′) and Vivek (12′, 28′), Dilpreet Singh (35′, 45′) and Harmanpreet Singh (41′) also scored in India’s win.
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The team got off to a dominant start, controlling the ball rather swiftly, passing around neatly and quickly to penetrate the Japanese circle.
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India won their first penalty corner of the game in the seventh minute and it was young gun Harmanpreet Singh, who stepped up to drag flick.
His attempt though was blocked but since the obstruction came off his body, India were awarded a penalty stroke.
Experienced drag-flicker Rupinder hardly broke a sweat in converting a stunning goal to fetch India a 1-0 early lead.
India’s second goal came in the 12th minute when debutant Vivek was quick to pick up a rebound and fiercely strike the ball past the Japanese goal keeper earning India a 2-0 lead.
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