Junior hockey World Cup: India held by Korea, fail to qualify for quarter-finals

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Despite leading 3-1 till the 58th minute, India Tuesday blew away their chances of qualifying for the quarterfinals after being forced to a 3-3 draw by South Korea in a dramatic finish in the last Pool C match of the Hockey Junior World Cup at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium here.

After going 0-1 down in the 16th minute in their must-win tie, India struck back with three consecutive goals, almost securing their last eight berth.

But penalty corner specialist Seungju You destroyed India’s dreams by scoring twice again and levelling the match in the last 12 minutes of the thrilling encounter.

With the end of the league phase, the Netherlands, who beat Canada 7-0 earlier in the day, topped Pool C with nine points from three wins.

Korea and India both have four points but the former go into the quarter-finals with a better goal difference. Canada, however, finished fourth on zero points.

India took off aggressively, earning a penalty corner early in the second minute but Amit Rohidas’ drag flick was wayward and India missed the chance to go ahead.

The visitors responded by earning their first penalty corner (fifth minute) but luck was on India’s side as You’s stroke hit the top bar and the ball kept out to the delight of the fans….

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