The Indian women’s hockey team made a disappointing start to the tour of Germany, losing 2-3 against China on Sunday night.
While Navneet Kaur scored in the 24th and 45th minute, Chen Jiali (9), Zhong Jiaqi (45) and Xu Yanan (51′) were the goal scorers for China
It was India who attacked aggressively and earned a PC in the third minute but it was saved by a strong Chinese defence. A few minutes later, an infringement while defending saw India concede a penalty stroke. China capitalised on the chance and scored their first goal in the ninth minute.
India began the second quarter on a positive note. A well executed attack saw them win back-to-back PCs but the team could not convert from these chances. A fierce attack in the 24th minute saw Kaur score a fine field goal.
India’s next big opportunity came in the 45th minute when an in-form Kaur scored her second goal for a 2-1 lead in the match.
However, it was short-lived as China were quick to equalise with a PC through Zhong. They further grabbed a decisive 3-2 lead when Xu scored in the 51st minute.
India will next take on Germany in back-to-back matches on Tuesday and Thursday.
(With PTI inputs)
By The Bridge
