India women’s team lose 0-1 to Ladies Den Bosch
The Indian women’s hockey team lost 0-1 against Ladies Den Bosch in a closely fought match during their ongoing tour of Europe.
The ‘Ladies Den Bosch’, which consists of nine players who regularly turn up for the Dutch national squad, put the Indian team on the back foot when they won a penalty corner in the third minute.
But goalkeeper Rajani Etimarpu was up to the task to keep the Dutch women from taking an early lead. She saved yet another penalty corner in the 17th minute to end the second quarter in a stalemate.
For India, Vandana Katariya and skipper Rani made promising forays into the striking circle. The duo even came close to converting a goal on two occasions but the Den Bosch custodian made a diving effort to deny India a goal.
In the 33rd minute, a well-assisted Lieke Hulsken beat goalkeeper Savita who replaced Rajani in the second half to score a splendid field goal and take a 1-0 lead.
EXPECT PLAYERS TO DELIVER: HARENDRA
NEW DELHI: India’s newly-appointed women’s hockey coach Harendra Singh says he expects his players to deliver and earn their “rightful places” in the national team. “The last few days have been incredible to say the least. The dust has settled and it’s time to move on,” Harendra said.
Harendra said, “Taking full responsibility for the Indian women’s team is an honour. I thank all those who have placed me in this position.
“With my staff, I now look forward to working with this talented group of players. We will concentrate on providing the team with the best possible environment and opportunities, in return we expect our players to deliver and take their rightful spot at the top.”
Harendra represented India from 1985 to 1991, playing 43 games, before calling it quits at just 26. “My sole objective is to share with the women’s team what I already experienced with the junior men’s team. I know we can walk that road again. This is not a repeat but a new journey!”