India Tuesday registered their first victory in the men's hockey Champions Trophy, beating world cup silver medallists the Netherlands 3-2 in the final league fixture of Pool B at the Kalinga Stadium here.
India started the match with a point to prove, having been beaten in the first two matches.
But the hosts couldn't score in the first quarter with Akashdeep Singh's attempt getting blocked by the opponent goalie.
The Netherlands were more aggressive in the second quarter and India's goalkeeper Shreejesh Parattu had to be alert to prevent India from conceding.
India received two penalty corners in the 24th minute but couldn't capitalise. On the other hand, they got a close shave when Mirco Pruijser's shot, of a penalty corner, rebounded off the goal post.
India went ahead through Sunil Somwarpet in the 33th minute only for Mink Weerden to convert a penalty corner to equalise in the 36th minute.
India restored their lead at the beginning of the last quarter through Manpreet Singh in the 46th minute, and two minutes later Rupinder Singh scored from a penalty corner to put India in control.
The Netherlands increased pressure, and earned two successive penalty corners to reduce the margin when Mink Weerden scored again but India held on to win.
Indian finished the group engagements with 3 points from three matches while the Netherlands topped the group with 6 points from as many matches.
India coach Roelant Oltmans said: "We played well in the game after two defeats. We are looking forward to face Belgium in the quarters. Our boys are ready and will play with full spirit."
