Germany win first hockey Test

Germany defeated India by a solitary goal in the first hockey Test at the Mahindra stadium, in Bombay, on Monday, to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

The matches are being held as part of the German festival in India. The other fixtures will be played at Hyderabad, on March 1, and Madras, on March 4.

Both teams applied defensive strategies and the ball kept rolling in the midfield.

The Indians could have taken an early lead in the 20th minute, but Prabhjot Singh, on receiving a centre from Bipin Fernandez, hit wide.

The Germans also had a chance six minutes later, but Justus Scharuwsky's powerful shot was brilliantly saved by Indian goalkeeper Jude Menezes.

Opportunity again arrived for the home team in the 32nd minute. Young Tajbir Singh gave a brilliant cross pass to Prabhjot Singh and captain Baljit Singh Dhillon, who were well-placed in the circle. However, both players failed to intercept the ball.

The Germans had the easiest of chances in the 35th minute when they were awarded a penalty stroke, but Nicolas Emmerling pushed wide.

The all-important goal for the Germans came in the 31st minute of the second half from a penalty- corner. Bjorn Michel drove home after a one-two passing bout with captain Michael Green.