In a thrilling encounter at the Sultan of Johor Cup, Australia ended India’s unbeaten streak with a resounding 4-0 victory on Wednesday. The match showcased a clash of titans, with both teams exhibiting exceptional skill and determination on the field. However, it was Australia who emerged triumphant, leaving the Indian colts with their first loss of the tournament.
Daykin Stanger was the hero of the match for Australia, scoring a remarkable hat-trick (33′, 39′, 53′) to spearhead the team’s offensive onslaught. His clinical finishing proved too much for the Indian defense, who struggled to find a way past the Australian backline. Patrik Andrew (29′) opened the scoring for Australia, putting India on the back foot early in the game.
Despite the loss, India remains at the top of the points table with nine points, demonstrating their consistent performance throughout the tournament. Australia, on the other hand, climbs to third place, trailing New Zealand in second. With three wins and one match remaining in the round-robin stage, India remains in contention for a spot in the final.
The match was a tight affair from the outset, with both teams exhibiting an intensity that mirrored the high stakes involved. Australia employed a high-pressure game, utilizing their speed to gain control of possession and create scoring opportunities. The first quarter witnessed a tense battle, with both teams trading chances but failing to find the back of the net.
The second quarter saw Australia break the deadlock when Patrick Andrew scored a brilliant reverse hit from the left flank, leaving India stunned. India responded with a determined effort, earning a penalty corner towards the end of the quarter, but the Australian goalkeeper made a crucial save to preserve their lead.
The third quarter proved to be a turning point in the match. Daykin Stanger extended Australia’s lead to 2-0 with a deft deflection off a reverse hit. The Indian side struggled to break through the Australian defense, leaving them searching for a way back into the game.
Australia continued to dominate, adding a third goal through Daykin Stanger, who showcased his exceptional skills and composure. The final quarter saw India desperately searching for an opening, but the Australian defense remained resolute, denying the Indian strikers any clear scoring opportunities. Hunter Banyard, the Australian goalkeeper, was outstanding throughout the game, making a series of crucial saves to keep the Indian attack at bay.
Daykin Stanger’s hat-trick in the 53rd minute sealed the victory for Australia, leaving the Indian team searching for consolation goals in the closing minutes. Despite their valiant efforts, India couldn’t find a way past the determined Australian defense, culminating in a decisive 4-0 win for the Australians.
The match served as a reminder of the high level of competition at the Sultan of Johor Cup, showcasing the strength and potential of both India and Australia on the international stage. With the tournament reaching its climax, the battle for supremacy continues, setting the stage for an exciting and unpredictable finish.
