NEW DELHI: After a disappointing start to their tour, the Indian women’s hockey team is determined to elevate their overall performance and level the three-match series against the formidable Australian team.
They seek a morale-boosting victory in the second Test, set to take place in Adelaide on Saturday. This tour serves as crucial preparation for the Hangzhou Asian Games later this year.
In the opening match of the tour at Mate Stadium, the Hockeyroos showcased their dominance, emerging victorious 4-2 against the Indian side. Australia exerted pressure on the Indian defense from the beginning, although they were unlucky in the first quarter.
However, in the second quarter, the hosts found their rhythm and scored two goals within six minutes. Australia’s Aisling Utri (21st minute) and Maddy Fitzpatrick (27th) scored.
The third quarter witnessed a quick succession of Hockeyroo goals. Alice Arnott (32nd) and Courtney Schonell (35th) found the net, consolidating Australia’s lead.
India, ranked eighth in the world, responded with determination in the game. They reduced the deficit with goals from Sangita Kumari (29th) and Sharmila Devi (40th).
With the series now 1-0 in favor of Australia, the Indian team is eager to regroup and deliver an improved performance in the upcoming match. They will strive to showcase their skills, unity, and determination to secure a vital victory and level the series against world No. 3 opponents.
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The Indians lacked cohesion and looked patchy in all departments of the game.
However, skipper Savita gave an excellent account of herself in front of the goal with numerous saves. However, she got no support from her defenders as they often gave away the ball, enabling Australia to create goal-scoring chances.
The Indians will look to utilize penalty corners that come their way as they wasted a handful in the first Test.
Sharmila Devi and Sangita looked promising upfront but lacked support.
India’s reserve skipper Bicchu Devi also made some effective saves when replacing Savita.
The margin of defeat could have been less had Navneet Kaur not wasted a penalty stroke in the final quarter. India’s chief coach Janneke Schopman would definitely worry about the missed chances.
The third match of the series will be played at the same venue on Sunday. This will be followed by India playing Australia ‘A’ in two more practice games on the tour on May 25 and 27.
