NEW DELHI: After a disappointing start to their tour, the Indian women's hockey team is determined to elevate their overall performance and level the three-match series against the formidable Australian team.
They seek a morale-boosting victory in the second Test, set to take place in Adelaide on Saturday. This tour serves as crucial preparation for the Hangzhou Asian Games later this year.
In the opening match of the tour at the Mate Stadium, the Hockeyroos showcased their dominance, emerging victorious with a 4-2 scoreline against the Indian side. Australia exerted pressure on the Indian defense right from the beginning, although they were unlucky in the first quarter.
However, in the second quarter, the hosts found their rhythm and managed to score two goals within six minutes. Debutant Aisling Utri (21st minute) and Maddy Fitzpatrick (27th) were the scorers for Australia.
The third quarter witnessed a quick succession of goals for the Hockeyroos. Alice Arnott (32nd) and Courtney Schonell (35th) found the back of the net, further consolidating Australia's lead.
India, ranked eighth in the world, responded with determination in the game. They managed to reduce the deficit with goals from Sangita Kumari (29th) and Sharmila Devi (40th).
With the series now at 1-0 in favor of Australia, the Indian team is eager to regroup and exhibit an improved performance in the upcoming match. They will strive to showcase their skills, unity, and determination in order to secure a vital victory and level the series against the world No. 3 opponents.
The Indians lacked cohesion and looked patchy in all departments of the game.
However, skipper Savita gave a good account of herself in front of the goal with numerous saves but got little support from her defenders as they often gave away the ball, enabling Australia to create goal-scoring chances.
The Indians will look to utilise the penalty corners that come their way as they wasted a handful in the first Test.
Sharmila Devi and Sangita looked promising upfront but lacked support.
India's reserve skipper Bicchu Devi also made some good saves when she replaced Savita.
The margin of defeat could have been less had Navneet Kaur not wasted a penalty stroke in the final quarter and India's chief coach Janneke Schopman would definitely be concerned about the missed chances.
The third match of the series will be played at the same venue on Sunday before India take on Australia 'A' in two more practice games on the tour on May 25 and 27.
(With PTI inputs)
