In an intense opening clash of the Australia tour, the Indian Women’s Hockey Team fell 3-5 to the Australian A side in a thrilling contest in first hockey friendly.
Despite the final result, the Indian team showed plenty of fighting spirit and signs of improvement, raising hopes for a stronger performance in the next match.
The game got off to a tough start for India as Australia A dominated the first quarter, scoring three goals within the first 11 minutes through Neasa Flynn, Olivia Downs, and Ruby Harris.
The early burst of energy from the hosts caught India on the back foot, resulting in a 0-3 deficit.
However, India gradually found their rhythm. In the second quarter, Australia A added another through Tatum Stewart (from a penalty corner), but India hit back when Mahima Tete pulled one back in the 27th minute. By halftime, the score stood at 1-4.
Australia A continued their attacking play after the break, with Kendra Fitzpatrick converting another penalty corner to make it 5-1. Undeterred, the Indian team launched a spirited fightback. Vice-captain Navneet Kaur struck in the 45th minute, followed by a brilliant field goal from Lalremsiami in the 50th minute, narrowing the margin to 3-5.
India actually won the second half 3-2, showing encouraging signs for the remainder of the tour. They created several chances in the final quarter but were unable to add more goals despite some late pressure.
Adding emotional weight to the match, the Indian players wore black armbands in remembrance of the victims of the tragic Pahalgam attack that took place earlier this week.
The team has announced they will continue to wear black armbands throughout the Australia tour to honour the lives lost.
The Indian Women’s Team will take on Australia A once again tomorrow in their second friendly match. With the team visibly improving as the game progressed, fans can expect a tighter contest and hopefully, a winning performance in the next encounter.
