Did India Secure a 3-1 Triumph Over Wales in the Junior Women’s Hockey WC?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- India's Junior women's team won 3-1 against Wales.
- Strong performances from Hina Bano, Sunelita Toppo, and Ishika.
- India dominated possession and created multiple scoring chances.
- Next match against Uruguay on December 9.
Santiago, Dec 8 (NationPress) The Indian Junior women’s hockey team achieved a remarkable 3-1 victory against Wales in their qualification match for the FIH Junior Women’s World Cup, which took place at the Centro Deportivo de Hockey Cesped, Estadio Nacional in Santiago. Hina Bano netted a goal in the 14th minute, followed by Sunelita Toppo in the 24th, and Ishika in the 31st minute, while Eloise Moat scored the sole goal for Wales in the 52nd minute.
India commenced the match with an aggressive approach, securing a Penalty Corner within the first 30 seconds, setting a dynamic pace early on. They skillfully maneuvered through the lines to create several scoring opportunities, although they faced initial challenges in converting these chances.
Wales almost took an early lead with a penalty stroke, but Nidhi executed a swift and impressive save, keeping the match level. India finally broke the stalemate late in the first quarter with a tap-in from Hina Bano (14'), thanks to clever play from Sakshi Rana.
Determined to increase their lead, India maintained pressure with another Penalty Corner at the start of the second quarter. They consistently generated scoring opportunities, eventually doubling their lead when Sakshi Rana's initial shot deflected to Sunelita Toppo (24'), who found the net from close range. With 14 circle penetrations in the first half, India rightfully entered the break with a 2-0 advantage.
Early in the second half, India extended their lead to 3-0 when Ishika (31') scored off a rebound from the Welsh goalkeeper. Jyoti Singh's team dominated the match's tempo, skillfully breaking through the Welsh defense with disciplined play both offensively and defensively. They kept pushing Wales into their own half, dominating the third quarter.
With most of the possession, India sought additional scoring opportunities to fortify their lead in the final quarter. Wales managed to find a gap, and Eloise Moat's goal in the 52nd minute reduced the deficit. However, it was merely a consolation as India held firm to claim a well-deserved 3-1 victory.
India's next encounter is against Uruguay on December 9.