Bhopal witnessed a dominant display from Australia's Under-18 hockey teams as both the men's and women's sides secured victories against India on Sunday. The matches were part of a four-game series held at the Udhav Das Mehta (Bhai Ji) Central SAI Centre.
Men's Match: Australia Clinch Series Lead
The Australian men's team produced a composed and clinical performance to beat India 3-1 in the second match of the series. After the first match ended in a 2-2 draw, this victory gave Australia a 1-0 lead in the four-game contest.
Australia struck first when Arjun Brian opened the scoring in the 16th minute of the second quarter. India fought back and were rewarded on the cusp of half-time when Ashish Tani Purti produced a neat individual effort in the 24th minute to lift the home crowd. However, Australia asserted themselves after the break with two more goals to seal the win.
India's Women's Team Suffers Second Defeat
In the women's match, India's Under-18 side suffered a second defeat to Australia U-18 in as many games. Australia registered a comfortable 4-1 win against the hosts.
The hosts began brightly as Diya put India ahead in the 11th minute, converting an early opportunity to give the home side control through the opening exchanges. India looked composed and created several probing moves but were unable to extend their lead before halftime.
Australia responded in emphatic fashion, turning the contest on its head with four goals between the 26th and 48th minutes. The visitors' relentless pressure proved too much for the Indian defense, securing a commanding victory.
The series continues with the remaining matches scheduled at the same venue.
