LAHORE: Pakistan began their campaign at the fifth Asian Champions Trophy hockey tournament on a positive note when they beat South Korea 3-1 at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex in Muscat, Oman on Friday night.
Pakistan were easily the better side in the first half.
The green-shirts were to face arch-rivals India late on Saturday night.
It is the first hockey event of Pakistan, after its Dutch coach Roelant Oltmans left the job over financial issues with the Pakistan Hockey Federation. Former Olympians Mohammad Saqlain and Rehan Butt are currently coaching the national team.
Pakistan led the first half 2-0.
In the 12th minute, a delightful move starting from the own half saw balls passed superbly and Umar Bhutta laid it in the path of Ajaz Ahmed in front of goal who easily put it in.
In the 18th minute, some excellent passing inside the circle saw an Bhutta attempt saved superbly by the Korean goalkeeper but Bhutta availed the rebound in a flash of an eye.
Though, Korea did better in the third quarter Pakistan still had more of the play. They made meaningful raids and in the 42nd minute, Rizwan Senior stepped aside two defenders and his terrific top of the circle carpet hit went through the goal keeper’s pads.
In the first five minutes of the last quarter, Pakistan wasted an open play opportunity and a penalty corner.
In the 51st minute, a brilliant Korean play made the match alive. An excellent angular backhander from circle’s left side reached an unmarked Kim Hyeoinjgin in a good spot who made it 1-3, but the goal remained consolation as Pakistan comfortably completed the victory.
On Saturday, Malaysia defeated hosts Oman 3-1 in their second preliminary match at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex.
Published in Dawn, October 21st , 2018
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