One of the biggest talking points of the India vs Belgium men's hockey semi-final at the Tokyo Olympics on Tuesday were the penalty corners.
Belgium were awarded as many as 14 penalty corners in the match, as they put the Indian defense under a lot of pressure. Out of the 14 penalty corners, the reigning world champions converted three.
Belgium's 4th goal was scored off a penalty stroke. The fifth was a field goal.
India meanwhile were awarded 5 penalty corners, of which they converted one.
If you are not fully aware of how the penalty corner and penalty stroke rules work in field hockey, here is a full explainer:
a) For an offence by a defender in the circle which does not prevent the probable scoring of a goal.
b) For an intentional offence in the circle by a defender against an opponent who does not have possession of the ball or an opportunity to play the ball
c) For an intentional offence by a defender outside the circle but within the 23 metres area they are defending
d) For intentionally playing the ball over the back-line by a defender. Goalkeepers are permitted to deflect the ball with their stick, protective equipment or any part of their body in any direction, including over the back-line.
e) When the ball becomes lodged in a player's clothing or equipment while in the circle they are defending.
Rule 12.4 - A penalty stroke is awarded...
a) For an offence by a defender in the circle which prevents the probable scoring of a goal. If the ball hits a piece of equipment lying in the circle and a probable goal is prevented, a penalty stroke may be awarded.
b) For an intentional offence in the circle by a defender against an opponent who has possession of the ball or an opportunity to play the ball
Rule 12.5 - If there is another offence or misconduct before the awarded penalty has been taken...
a) A more severe penalty may be awarded
b) A personal penalty may be awarded
c) The penalty may be reversed if the subsequent offence was committed by the team first awarded the penalty
