INDIA BOUNCE BACK IN STYLE TO LEVEL SERIES

New Delhi: Skipper Rani Rampal and defender Gurjit Kaur scored a brace each as India posted an emphatic 4- 1 win over hosts Spain in their final match, to end the fivematch women’s hockey series 2- 2 in Madrid on Monday. India dominated possession and were creative in attack as Rani ( 33’, 37’) provided them a two- goal cushion. Gurjit ( 44’, 50’) scored from short corners towards the closing stages to help India add to their lead. Spain’s Lola Riera ( 58’) scored the consolation goal for the hosts. India’s aggressive start fetched them two penalty corners in the first five minutes, but Spain defended well. India maintained the pressure in the second quarter and did not give away possession easily. The world no. 10 team showed quality in the midfield and made an attempt through young forward Lalremsiami but it was saved by Spain goalkeeper Maria Ruiz. In the third quarter India utilised their possession to good effect as Rani connected to a cross from midfielder Namita Toppo to find the net with a delightful strike. Four minutes later, Rani had another opportunity and the 23- year- old added to the tally. Gurjit also registered her name on the scoresheet, converting a penalty corner in the 44th minute to make the scores 3- 0. India dominated the last quarter as well, earning two penalty corners in the opening five minutes. Gurjit made the most of the opportunity, making it 4- 0 before the hosts pulled back one late in the game.