How Did the Indian Women's Hockey Team Fare Against Australia?
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Synopsis
In a thrilling encounter at the FIH Hockey Pro League, the Indian women's hockey team showed incredible spirit by coming back from a 0-3 deficit against Australia. Despite their valiant effort, they fell short, losing 2-3. Discover the match's highlights and personal milestones that made this game memorable.
Key Takeaways
- India displayed remarkable resilience in the face of a 0-3 deficit.
- Deepika and Neha scored to reduce the gap to 2-3.
- Australia's defense held firm in the final quarter.
- Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke celebrated her 50th cap.
- Tribute was paid to victims of the aircraft tragedy.
London, June 14 (NationPress) The Indian women’s hockey team displayed remarkable resilience, coming back from a 0-3 deficit to narrowly lose 2-3 against Australia during their FIH Hockey Pro League 2024/25 clash at the Lee Valley Hockey & Tennis Centre on Saturday.
Prior to the match, both teams paid tribute with a moment of silence for those affected by the recent aircraft disaster in Ahmedabad.
Despite falling behind by three goals, India rallied with strikes from Deepika (44') and Neha (52'), but Australia maintained composure in a tense final quarter to clinch the victory. Goals for Australia came from Courtney Schonell (16'), Lexie Pickering (27'), and Tatum Stewart (35'). This match also marked a significant milestone for midfielder Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, celebrating her 50th appearance for the national team.
Both teams started the opening quarter evenly matched, demonstrating their intent to control possession. India strategically applied pressure on the Australian defense while holding firm against a penalty corner awarded to Australia in the 10th minute. A late attacking effort by India forced Australian goalkeeper Zoe Newman into a remarkable double save.
Just a minute into the second quarter, Courtney Schonell capitalized on a swift pass from Grace Stewart to score, putting Australia ahead. Australia's high-pressure tactics led to turnovers for India, with a critical misplay from Navneet resulting in multiple shots on goal for Australia. Savita's quick reflexes thwarted two attempts, but Lexi Pickering managed to score on the rebound, increasing the lead to 2-0. India struggled to create scoring opportunities before halftime.
The third quarter saw Australia continue their dominance, earning another penalty corner within five minutes. Although Sunelita Toppo defended bravely, a subsequent penalty stroke awarded to Tatum Stewart resulted in a third goal for Australia.
With just 68 seconds left in the quarter, India earned a penalty corner. Deepika executed a perfect flick, narrowing the score to 1-3.
The fourth quarter saw India come out with renewed vigor. They won three consecutive penalty corners in the 46th minute but couldn't find the equalizer. In the 52nd minute, India's persistent pressure paid off when Neha scored from a chaotic situation in front of the goal, making it 2-3.
Despite India's relentless attempts to equalize with fast-paced plays, Australia held onto their lead, ensuring their victory.
Point of View
It is our duty to recognize the unwavering spirit of the Indian women's hockey team. Their resilience in the face of adversity is commendable, and their performance against a formidable Australian side shows great promise for future matches. We stand by our athletes and celebrate their journey.
NationPress
15/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the match?
The final score was 2-3 in favor of Australia.
Who scored for India?
Deepika and Neha scored for India.
Where did the match take place?
The match took place at the Lee Valley Hockey & Tennis Centre in London.
Is this match part of a larger tournament?
Yes, this match was part of the FIH Hockey Pro League 2024/25.
What significant milestone was reached during the match?
Midfielder Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke made her 50th appearance for India.
