India outplay Oz 5-1, enter Sultan of Johor Cup final

Johor Bahru : The Indian junior men's hockey team thrashed Australia 5-1 to qualify for the final of the 9th Sultan of Johor Cup here on Wednesday. India's clinical performance at the Taman Daya Hockey Stadium saw goals from Shilanand Lakra (26', 29'), Dilpreet Singh (44'), Gursahibjit Singh (48') and Mandeep Mor (50').

India had first sight of goal in the opening minute because of an Australian mistake. A misjudgement off an aerial ball meant Gursahibjit was clear on goal in the circle, but Robert Maclennan was quick to come off his line and block the angles before clearing the ball to safety.

For the rest of the quarter, both teams looked for control in midfield with the Aussies earning the first penalty corner of the game in the eight minute. Early in the second quarter, Prashant Chauhan was called into action.

Off a swift attack, Michael Francis' shot was deflected by Sam McCulloch towards goal. Chauhan was alive to the anger though, pulling off a reflex save to keep the scores level. India earned their first penalty corner of the game minutes later, but Gursahibjit dragged his attempt wide. India had the lead through Lakra.