Rio de Janeiro (dpa) – Christopher Ruehr scored with four seconds left on Monday as Germany beat India 2-1 in field hockey group play and with it sent a warning to rivals that they are serious about seeking a third straight Olympic gold.
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The Indians were still playing a defensive game and were two goals behind at half-time when Mie Nakashima shot on target in the 28th minute.
Indian rallied back and reduced the margin when Rani Rampal scored off a penalty corner in the 30th minute and 10 minutes later, Lilima Minz drew parity by converting another penalty corner into goal (2-2).
The Indian girls had got off to a bright start in the match before losing the plot towards the end of the first quarter.
The game went into half time with Japan leading 2-0.
India’s first scoring chance came in the seventh minute but Preeti Dubey, who was lurking in front of Japan goal, failed to direct Deepika’s cross.
There was seemed difference in the Indian game-plan in the second quarter, which coach Hawgood says was because the girls had not settled down.
Danny Kerry’s side have impressed in Brazil against Australia and India, but will have to raise their game against Argentina on Wednesday.
Goalkeeper Savita made a brilliant diving save in the final second of the third quarter to deny Yuri Nagai and keep India alive in the match.
“Two minutes isn’t enough to settle them down at quarter time”.
The Indians went through some anxious moments in the final few minutes when Japan pressed hard for the victor.
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The match got underway with Great Britain looking to intimidate right from the starting whistle.
