Sultan of Johor Cup: 'Coach' PR Sreejesh guides India to bronze medal win

Goalkeeper Bikramjit Singh showcased nerves of steel, making three crucial saves as India outwitted New Zealand 3-2 in a thrilling shootout to secure the bronze medal at the Sultan of Johor Cup junior men’s hockey tournament on Saturday.

After the match ended in a 2-2 stalemate in regulation time, strikers Gurjot Singh, Manmeet Singh, and Sourabh Anand Kushwaha converted their penalties in the tense shootout, while Bikramjit’s three outstanding saves sealed India’s victory.

Earlier, in regulation time, goals by Dilraj Singh (11′) and Manmeet Singh (20′) gave India a roaring start, but New Zealand disrupted India’s momentum in the final quarter with scores by Owen Brown (51′) and Jonty Elmes (57′).

India began strongly with tactful, compact attacks. Swift, short passes and skillful dribbling helped India take an early lead when Dilraj scored in the 11th minute from an assist by Mukesh Toppo. India maintained control in the second quarter, their defense stalling New Zealand’s forwards. A defensive error in the 19th minute led to a penalty corner, but India’s defense blocked back-to-back attempts. The next minute saw a brilliant combination of stickwork between Manmeet, Anmol Ekka, and Mukesh, resulting in a stunning field goal.

India’s 2-0 lead put them in a strong position, creating several chances before halftime. The third quarter remained goalless, but New Zealand made a strong comeback in the fourth quarter. In the 51st minute, Owen Brown converted a cross-pass from Bradley Rothwell, and in the 57th minute, Jonty Elmes, who previously scored a hat-trick against India, struck again, sending the match to the shootout.