A team of champions!
The Indian hockey team found stardom with its very debut in the Olympic games of 1928 as they went on to secure three consecutive gold medals in 1928, 1932, and 1936! A big part of that all-conquering side was its phenomenal goalkeeper, Richard Allen.
Born in Nagpur, Allen featured in all three campaigns, conceding only three goals - a record that, to this day, remains unmatched. However, it was a bizarre goal he conceded in the 1932 Los Angeles game that continues to be a talking point in Indian hockey even now.
Featuring stalwarts like Major Dhyan Chand and his brother Roop Singh, the then Indian team was so robust that opponents struggled to mount an attack on the Indian goal. On the rare occasions that they tried, Richard Allen stood like a rock to ensure no damage was done.
During the 1928 Olympics in Amsterdam, Allen played in all five matches, and his goal was not breached even once. However, an unusual breach would happen four years later.
The 1932 LA Games were marred by the Great Economic Depression which led to participation of only three teams in field hockey, each of which were hence guaranteed a medal.
A break that cost Allen a goal
In the opening match, India hammered Japan 11-1. Then, the Japanese went on to beat the Americans 9-2. Unsurprisingly, India were the overwhelming favourites to win their last match against USA and seal the gold.
Legend has it that Allen got so bored with the one-sided proceedings that he walked to the gallery’s edge and started signing autographs!
Thus, was scored the lone American hockey goal at the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics. Not surprisingly, India still thrashed the hosts 24-1 to successfully defend their crown.
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