New Delhi: India cruised their way to victory over China to all but ensure they progress to round three of the men’s Hero Hockey World League 2013. Indeed, only a loss in their final game against Bangladesh and a miracle on the goal difference front could see them overhauled by two teams.
Two goals in each half were served up the Delhi hosts, the first coming from VR Raghunath’s high drag-flick in the 12th minute, his seventh of the competition. Raghunath added his and his country’s second amid a scramble following a baseline pull-back in the 28th minute to double the difference.
Four minutes into the second half, any lingering Chinese hopes were further dented Mandeep Singh played a ball through his legs to Dharamvir Singh who bundled in once more.
And the scoring was completed by Rupinder Pal Singh as he netted his sixth penalty corner goal of the tournament. Should India claim even a draw against Bangladesh in their final game, they will be crowned the tournament champions. China need a huge win meanwhile, over Ireland to have any chance of breaking into the top two.
China – India 0-4 (half-time: 0-2)