MUSCAT, Feb 1: Indian women’s team continued to make waves in the FIH Pro League as it dished out yet another masterclass to beat China 2-1 and move to the top of the standings here on Tuesday.
After defeating China 7-1 in their debut match on Monday, the Indians emerged 2-1 victorious against the same opponents at the Sultan Qaboos Complex on Tuesday.
While the win was not as goal-heavy as the previous day, what India showed was an ability to play swift, attacking hockey without losing composure.
A lack of experience and a certain level of weariness seemed to beset the China women’s team from the opening whistle of their second FIH Hockey Pro League match against India. Lost possession and misplaced passes contributed to a poor first half performance.
India, by contrast, started the match with high levels of energy and an appetite for attacking play that rocked their opponents even further. Pressure exerted by the Indians on the Chinese defence paid off quickly. A penalty corner in the third minute was converted with precision by Gurjit Kaur.
In the second half, China seemed to rally. They defended with more conviction and India were finding it difficult to contain the Chinese attack.
As India struggled to regain the free-flowing play of the first half, China began to make their own incursions into the Indian circle.
A lovely pass that split the Indian defence left Wang Shumin with just Savita to beat. The Indian goalkeeper rushed forward but Wang was able to place the ball in the corner and restore parity. A series of penalty corners was the India’s answer to the Chinese revival but each attempt was dealt with by a resolute defence.
The final quarter saw India attack with a renewed vigour. Monika was particularly visible as she led the team forward.
The hard work paid off as India won a penalty corner almost instantly. Ekka Deep Grace saw her shot fly wide but the notice had been served – India were intent on all three points. Wu Surong was quickly out of her goal to smother a fast break from Kaur Navneet.
However, Wu Surong had no chance when Gurjit Kaur stepped up for yet another penalty corner. The penalty corner specialist made no mistake as she slotted the ball home to double her team’s score. As the quarter counted down, India continued to pile on the pressure. (PTI)
