The Indian girls’s hockey crew survived some anxious moments earlier than defeating Canada Three-2, Three-2 of their must-win Group A match to qualify for the semifinals of the Commonwealth Video games on Wednesday.
The Indians regarded in charge of the match until the 22nd minute after taking a 2-Zero lead over their world quantity 15 opponents by way of objectives from Salima Tete (third minute) and Navneet Kaur (22nd minute).
However the Canadians then produced a lion-hearted efficiency to stage the scores by way of objectives from Brienne Stairs (23rd) and Hannah Haughn (39th).
With England having already secured a spot within the pool semi-finals with a Three-1 win over India on Tuesday, it was a easy recreation for Savita Punia’s aspect, with Canada needing only a draw to progress as they accomplished it. a greater objective distinction.
Deadlocked at 2-2, Janneke Schopman’s ladies responded brilliantly when Lalremsiami scored from a rebound after a nook within the 51st minute.
The Indians got here out aggressive within the first quarter and dominated the proceedings proper from the beginning. India’s attacking intent paid off as early because the third minute of the sport when Salima scored from a nook kick.
Two minutes later, Lalremsiami missed an incredible alternative to double the lead, her shot whizzing extensive of the Canadian objective put up.
Simply seconds into the primary quarter, Sangita Kumari confirmed nice abilities to hold the ball from the baseline and create an incredible probability for India which was saved by Canadian goalkeeper Rowan Harris.
The Canadians confirmed extra intent within the second quarter and had been capable of put the Indian protection underneath strain on a number of events.
Nevertheless it was India who doubled their lead within the 22nd minute by way of Navneet Kaur, who fired into an open objective after receiving a go from Lalremsiami.
A minute later, Canada secured a nook penalty and lowered the deficit by way of Stairs. Within the 39th minute, Canada secured one other nook and Haughn equalized for her crew.
With seconds left within the third quarter, Canada secured two extra penalty corners, however India defended to the depend. Dealing with elimination, Monika got here near handing India the much-needed objective within the 47th minute however was denied by Canadian custodian Harris.
Two minutes later, Neha Goyal pushed over from shut vary however the objective was disallowed when the ball hit Salima’s again stick.
The Indians stored up the strain and secured a penalty nook within the 51st minute and this time Lalremsiami slotted house from a melee after Gurjit Kaur’s shot was saved by the Canadian defence. Two minutes from the hooter, India secured one other nook however did not capitalize on it.
The Indians stored their protection in form for the remainder of the sport to get the all-important win.
