Bangladesh returned to winning ways in the Asia Cup hockey tournament with an emphatic 8-3 victory over Chinese Taipei in Rajgir, Bihar, India, following a disappointing 1-4 defeat to Malaysia in their opening Group B match.
Abdullah, Ashraful Islam and Rakibul Islam all scored twice as Bangladesh dominated the contest. Chinese Taipei stayed competitive only until the second quarter, but struggled to contain the Bangladesh attack thereafter.
Mohammad Abdullah opened the scoring in the 4th minute, giving Bangladesh an early lead. However, Chinese Taipei responded strongly, netting twice in the 10th and 18th minutes to take a 2-1 advantage. Bangladesh equalised in the 26th minute with another field goal, setting the stage for a commanding second half.
From the third quarter onwards, Bangladesh were relentless. Shohanur Rahman Sabuj scored from a penalty corner in the 36th minute, before Rakibul Islam struck twice in quick succession six minutes later to put his team in control. Ashraful Islam then converted a penalty corner in the 45th minute to make it 6-2.
Captain Rezaul Islam Babu added another penalty corner in the 56th minute, with Ashraful completing his brace two minutes later for Bangladesh’s eighth goal. Chinese Taipei managed a late consolation in the final minute, but it did little to mask the margin of defeat.
Bangladesh will now face defending champions South Korea in their final Group B match the day after tomorrow.
