Bhubaneswar, Feb 15 (NationPress) In an exhilarating match, the Indian women’s hockey team triumphed over England with a score of 3-2 during their opening game of the FIH Women’s Pro League at Kalinga Stadium on Saturday. The match was clinched by vice-captain Navneet Kaur, who netted the decisive goal late in the game. Vaishnavi Vitthal Phallke (6’), Deepika (25’), and Navneet Kaur (59’) scored for India, while Darcy Bourne (12’) and Fiona Crackles (58’) recorded the goals for England.

Notably, two of India's goals were scored from penalty corners, a significant improvement in an area that has previously posed challenges for the team.

The match began with both teams trading blows in the first quarter. India opened the scoring in the sixth minute after being awarded the first penalty corner. Manisha Chauhan’s initial attempt was blocked, but the rebound fell to Sushila Chanu, who fired a powerful shot that Vaishnavi Vitthal Phallke deftly redirected into the net. Following a brief review, the goal was validated.

England quickly responded in the 12th minute, taking advantage of a defensive oversight. Vaishnavi lost control of the ball within the shooting circle, allowing Maddie Axford to shoot, which was initially stopped by goalkeeper Savita. However, Darcy Bourne was quick to capitalize on the rebound, equalizing the score. As the first quarter came to a close, Tessa Howard unleashed a powerful shot, but Savita made an impressive save, keeping the score at 1-1.

The second quarter continued to be tightly contested. India showcased strong possession, moving the ball with precision, while England applied high pressure to regain possession in dangerous zones. In the 25th minute, India earned their second penalty corner, which was flawlessly executed by Deepika, marking her 50th international appearance with a significant goal.

The third quarter was a thrilling exchange, with both teams launching aggressive attacks. India emphasized midfield control, while England sought to exploit the wings. Katie Curtis was particularly notable for England, skillfully advancing the ball, but India’s defense remained steadfast, intercepting crucial passes. In the 42nd minute, India was awarded another penalty corner, and Deepika took a powerful shot, but it was blocked by the English goalkeeper.

In the final quarter, England gained traction, earning three consecutive penalty corners but failing to convert. Their persistence bore fruit in the 58th minute when Fiona Crackles found the back of the net, leveling the score.

However, India swiftly countered. Just a minute later, vice-captain Navneet Kaur struck from the edge of the shooting circle, sending the ball through the goalkeeper’s legs and into the net. This late goal secured a thrilling 3-2 victory for India, earning them three crucial points to kick off their campaign on a high note.