RANCHI, April 12: Jharkhand successfully defended their Hockey India Sub Junior Women National title by defeating Madhya Pradesh 2-1 in a closely fought Division ‘A’ final here on Sunday.
Odisha secured the bronze medal, overcoming Uttar Pradesh 4-2 in the 3rd-4th place match.
Sugan Sanga (5th minute) handed Jharkhand an early advantage by converting a penalty corner, but Nammi Geethasri (37th) brought Madhya Pradesh back on level terms in the second half.
With both teams locked at 1-1 and pushing hard for a winner, it was Sewani Kerketta (56th) who rose to the occasion, netting a crucial field goal in the dying minutes to seal the title for the hosts.
Jharkhand’s triumph was built on a flawless campaign, as they remained unbeaten throughout the tournament.
They topped Pool A with two wins from two matches before registering identical 2-0 victories in the quarterfinal and semifinal against Punjab and Uttar Pradesh respectively.
Sandeepa Kumari emerged as their leading scorer, finishing the tournament with five goals.
Earlier in the day, Odisha defeated Uttar Pradesh 4-2 in the 3rd/4th place match of the Division ‘A’ to clinch the bronze medal. (PTI)
