Did Kanika's Lone Goal Secure Victory for the Junior Women’s Hockey Team Against Australia U21?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Kanika Siwach scored the only goal of the match.
- The Indian team won 1-0 against Australia U21.
- This victory is a significant morale boost.
- Upcoming matches against Canberra Chill on September 30 and October 2.
- Preparation for the FIH Hockey Women’s Junior World Cup 2025.
Canberra, Sep 29 (NationPress) Kanika Siwach (32') netted the decisive goal as the Indian junior women's hockey team achieved a narrow 1-0 victory over the Australia U21 squad during their third match of the ongoing Australia Tour at the National Hockey Centre here on Monday.
Following a challenging first half, India finally broke the stalemate thanks to an essential field goal by Kanika Siwach in the early minutes of the third quarter, securing the win for her team.
Despite suffering two consecutive losses against the Australia U21 team earlier, this victory provides the visitors with renewed momentum as they aim to recover in the upcoming matches of this tour.
Previously, the junior women’s hockey team faced a close 2-3 defeat in their first match against the U21 side at the National Hockey Centre in Canberra on Friday. Lalthantluangi (47') and Sonam (54') contributed the goals for India, while Bianca Zurrer (36'), Evie Sransby (45'), and Sammy Love (59') found the net for Australia.
In their second encounter, the team struggled significantly, falling 0-5 to the Australia U21 side, with goals from Makayla Jones (10’, 11’, 52’), Sami Love (38’), and Migaliya Howell (50’).
The Indian team is set to compete in two matches against the Canberra Chill, a club in Australia's top-tier Hockey One League, on September 30 and October 2, marking the conclusion of their Australia Tour.
This series is a vital preparation for the Indian team ahead of the FIH Hockey Women’s Junior World Cup 2025, scheduled to take place in Santiago, Chile, this December.
Gaining exposure to high-quality competition in Australia is anticipated to significantly enhance their skill level and confidence in international settings.