Pakistan charges back from two deficits to take seventh place

In Sohail Abbas’ 350^th international match, Pakistan found their form in the second half ending their London campaign with a narrow victory over continental rivals Korea. 

A Muhammad Imran penalty corner launch with nine minutes to play gave Pakistan their first and only scoreline advantage of the match.

The first half yielded circle penetrations for both teams, Shafqat Rasool found himself on the receiving end of a liberating pass from Muhammad Rizwan Sr, but he seemed to close his own angle to goal allowing Myung Ho Lee to block with ease.

Korea attacking from both endlines with Sung Hoon Yoon and Nam Yong Lee faced a blockade of green shirts that brought on a series of crosses that were only slightly more effective. 

With five to play in the half, an attack through the middle found Hye Sung Hyun open for an easy touch at the right post giving Korea short lived lead.  Muhammad Waqas replied emphatically within a minute with a resounding strike.  Korea would not be denied their half time advantage as another Hyun tally at the end of a scramble survived a Pakistan team referral.

Pakistan held the advantage in the second half, Abdul Haseem Khan finding his own rebound off of Lee and calmly lifted the equalizer over the prone keeper.  Korea pressed forward but was unable to find space in the crowded attacking quarter.

Imran’s winner came just after a similar drag flick from Sohail Abbas temporarily injured Lee in the Korean goal and perhaps limited his mobility on the decisive strike.

Pakistan leaves London with a seventh place finish and the consolation of being the highest ranked Asian team in the competition.

(Hari Kant)