India began their campaign in the Sultan of Johor Cup Under-21 hockey tournament on a strong note, defeating England 2-1 in their opening round-robin match here on Sunday.
Ramandeep Singh put India ahead in the 18th minute before Talwinder Singh doubled the lead in the 50th minute.
Sam French pulled one back for the Englishmen, converting a penalty corner in the 67th minute.
Despite the victory, India looked far from convincing and did just enough to secure victory. They earned four penalty corners but failed to convert a single one. England were no better as they utilised just one of the six short corners that came their way.
India forced three penalty corners early in the second half — in the 41st, 42nd and 45th minutes — but Amit Rohidas was woefully off target, hardly testing goalkepeer Gibson.
Custodian Harjot Singh stood out, making a couple of great saves to keep a clean slate for his side till the 67th minute.
India coach Gregg Clark agreed that his wards were not up to the mark on the day.
“We failed to capitalise on the chances we created but all credit to England who stayed in the game and gave us a tough time,” he said after the match.
“It is a question of getting things right and this being our first match it was a decent performance as we really should have not been caught in possesion as many times as we did,” he said “Still I am happy with the three points and a winning start is always welcome.”