The Manpreet-led side's first win of 2022 was sealed against France
India defeated France by 5-0 to seal their first win of 2022. India won under the captaincy of Manpreet Singh. India is now ranked 2nd at the FIH Pro League 2021-22 points table.
England is holding the top position.
India’s five goals came from Harmanpreet Singh (21'), Varun Kumar (24'), Shamsher Singh (28'), Mandeep Singh (32') and Akashdeep Singh (41').
India went on an attacking mode right from the start of the match, putting pressure on the French defence.
India won the game's first penalty corner at the nine-minute mark, but the French defence and goalie Arthur Thieffry handled the threat and the follow-up. Towards the conclusion of the first quarter, France managed to produce a handful of half-chances of their own, but none were severe enough to bother Indian goalkeeper Umang.
India looked more dangerous in the second quarter, with the forward line making dangerous penetrating runs inside the opposition's circle.
Their efforts paid off as India won the third PC in the 21st minute of the match, which was beautifully converted by Vice-Captain Harmanpreet. Having taken control of the proceedings, India went on to take a 2-0 lead, courtesy of PC conversion from Varun in the 23rd minute.
France, regaining some strength, went on to win a penalty corner in the 28th, but the Indian defence stood tall to deny them a goal and a quick counterattack from India led by Nilakanta and Shamsher put India in the driver's seat.
Nilakanta's pass to the downfield found Shamsher in the right spot, who calmly nicked into the back of the nets, making the scoreline 3-0 at the end of half-time.
However, Mandeep Singh thundered in a Manpreet Singh corner to make it 4-0 minutes into the third quarter. In the 41st minute, Akashdeep Singh increased to France's woes by finishing off a well-executed team play.
India gained solid control of the contest after gaining a significant lead.
In the fourth quarter, France made a valiant effort to cut the deficit, but the Indian defence held them off. India had a couple of chances to add to their total, but the score remained at 5-0 till the final whistle.
India's first competitive match of 2022 took place against France, who were making their FIH Pro League debut.
India will play against the hosts South Africa in their next match.
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