New Delhi: As the Indian team came out for their final match of the Olympic qualifiers, the players knew nothing less than a win could guarantee them a berth in the Beijing Olympics.
Great Britain started the game with more purpose in their play, immediately pushing India on their heels.
In the fourth minute, Barry Middleton received a great pass from Ashley Jackson and didn't miss the opportunity to open the scoring.
India seemed to have trouble reacting and did not threaten the British defense for a while.
On a penalty-corner earned after a decisive run by James Tindall, Richard Mantell increased the scoring with a direct flick. India now trailed by two goals.
Tension was high in second half, maintained by the Indian drums in the stands.
With the Indian increasing their pace, the game also became rougher and the umpires had to use their cards to try and cool down the tempers. India were reduced to ten players when Prabhjot Singh was penalized for a reckless back tackle.
With the clock ticking down, there was more urgency in the Indian ranks, their nervousness showing on a series of penalty-corners, which they badly spoiled.
Even as Indians grew in desperation, Britain kept their composure to survive the vital final moments of a match.
Soon, the drums in the stands also became silent in mourning of the first non-qualification of an Indian team for the Olympic games as the British cruised to a victory that earns them a berth in the Beijing Olympic games.
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