India women lose to Oz, to play for bronze
GOLD COAST: The Indian women’s hockey team played a great match, dominated the fourth quarter and got into scoring position a number of times, but could not capitalise on the opportunities. Australia emerged winners thanks to a solitary goal in the semi-final and will meet New Zealand for the title. New Zealand overcame England 2-1 in shootout after both teams failed to score in regulation time.
India will now take on England — the team they defeated in the league stage — in the bronze medal match.
“We played really well. To take on Australia on their home ground and dominate in the fourth quarter shows how good the girls are, ” coach Harendra Singh said.
Australia scored the all-important goal in the 36th minute when they effected a turnover and the ball came to Grace Stewart who shot it past goalkeeper Savita.
India went in search for the equaliser towards the end of the third quarter and virtually camped in the Australian half. They dominated the fourth quarter too and created a number of chances but failed to get past the Australian defence. They earned three penalty corners as well.
The Indians can take heart from the fact that they will improve upon their fifth-place finish in the last two editions after winning the title in 2002 Manchester and silver in Melbourne four years later.
MEN EYE FINAL SLOT
The men’s hockey team will continue its quest for the elusive gold when they take on New Zealand in the semi-final on Friday.
“Against New Zealand, we don’t want to focus too much on what they bring to the table, but want to focus on our strengths and ensure we fight till the last whistle,” said skipper Manpreet Singh.