Daijiworld Media Network – London

London, Jun 26: The Indian men's hockey team suffered a 1-4 shootout defeat to hosts England after battling to a thrilling 2-2 draw in regulation time during their FIH Pro League European tour match at the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre on Thursday.

Forward Dilpreet Singh starred for India with a brilliant brace, scoring in the 10th and 58th minutes to rescue his side after England had twice fought back through David Goodfield (29') and Nicholas Bandurak (56').

England secured the bonus point by dominating the shootout, with Thomas Sorsby, James Albery and captain Zachary Wallace converting their attempts. Wallace also successfully converted a penalty stroke, while Harmanpreet Singh was India's only successful scorer in the shootout.

India made an impressive start to the contest and earned an early penalty corner, but Harmanpreet's drag-flick was denied by goalkeeper James Mazarelo. The visitors broke the deadlock in the 10th minute when Mandeep Singh produced a fine run along the baseline before setting up Dilpreet, who finished with a diving effort.

England restored parity just before half-time through Goodfield, whose powerful volley found the net after a fortunate deflection inside the circle.

The third quarter remained evenly contested, with both teams creating opportunities but unable to find the breakthrough.

England edged ahead in the 56th minute when Bandurak converted a low drag-flick from a penalty corner. However, India's response was swift as Sumit produced an excellent run before finding Dilpreet, who fired home through the goalkeeper's legs to level the scores with just two minutes remaining and force the match into a shootout.

The hosts held their nerve in the shootout to seal victory and claim the bonus point.

India will next face Pakistan in their upcoming FIH Pro League fixture on June 26.