Dear Editor,
Laying more astroturfs has paid off. India has played very well in the Asian Games men’s hockey from day one. Sardar Singh has proved that he is not only a great player but also a pivotal feeder and master morale booster. India won most of its matches decisively. Our only loss in the round robin stage was to the arch opportunist Pakistan team. Pakistan did not play better, but their finishing was highly spirited. In the final, India played well. Pakistan’s lead taking goal was also a product of rank opportunism and against the run of play. But India did not lose heart and towards the dying stages, they produced a morale building gem of a goal. In the penalty shootout, India showed technical superiority. The final 4-2 result was well deserved. The goalkeeper performed a splendid job. A rejuvenated India must now provide diet equivalent to European standards to its players. There should be more national level tournaments for a better selection of team and more experience of playing against Australia, Germany, Holland, New Zealand and the Great Britain.
The other gold in women’s 4×400 m relay race was won in grand style. The Indian quartet indeed led decisively.
Harjap Singh Aujla
via-e-mail
