NEW DELHI, March 4 (IANS): India's prospects in the Hockey World Cup suffered a setback as the hosts went down 2-5 to Spain in their crucial Pool B match at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium here Thursday.
Olympics silver medallists Spain scored their first goal through Albert Sala (19th minute) while skipper Pol Amat (35th) added to the tally just at the stroke of first half. Sandeep Singh (39th) converted a penalty corner at the start of second half but Spain immediately struck in quick succession through Pau Quemada (41st) and Roc Oliva (42nd) to stretch the lead.
Gurwinder Singh Chandi (43rd) narrowed the margin before Quemada (67th) slotted home another penalty corner to take the match away from India.
India lost their second consecutive match after going down to Australia by the same margin following their victory over Pakistan in the opener.
India played better hockey as compared to their last match against Australia, but failed to make use of their chances. They could convert only one of the five penalty corners with Spanish goalkeeper Francisco Cortes making some brilliant saves.
Indian goalkeeper P.R. Sreejesh, who replaced Adrian D'souza, did well to thwart two Spanish attempts.
Both teams played a fast-paced game right from the start and were up to the rival defences in a flash.
India made some good moves but failed to get the ball past an alert Spanish defence. The hosts on the other hand made a series of lapses in their defence.
Amat showed his experience as he ran down the Indian defence to create chances with fine control of the ball.
