KARACHI, July 25: Pakistan Juniors got off to a fine start when they handed out a 3-1 defeat to the Netherlands in the four-nation hockey tournament at Alcala la Real, Spain, on Thursday.

According to a message here on Friday, Pakistan was enjoying 2-0 lead at the interval.

Pakistan took the lead in the fifth minute when left-in Tariq Aziz scored the opening goal on a penalty corner rebound.

Half-back Mohammad Imran initiated the move from the half-line and on the pass from Tariq Aziz, Akhtar made it 2-0 in the 17th minute.

Soon after resumption, Tariq consolidated his team’s position by converting a penalty stroke.

After conceding three goals, the Netherlands played with packed defence and did not allow Pakistan to increase their lead.

A minute before time Jolie Wouter scored the consolation goal for the Dutch.

After rest on Friday, Pakistan will take on Germany and play Spain on Sunday.—APP