The Indian women’s team won the 100th Anniversary Spanish Hockey Federation - International Tournament on Sunday with a 3-0 victory over hosts Spain.
Vandana Katariya (22’), Monika (48’), and Udita (58’) scored as the team remained undefeated in the tournament. India had drawn 1-1 with England and 2-2 with Spain in their previous matches.
Riding on the success of yesterday’s match against England, where Lalremsiami’s hat-trick helped them win 3-0, the table toppers India got off to a strong start in the first quarter.
They were cautious in their pursuit, as they worked a disciplined structure with short, accurate passes that allowed them to create space in the circle. But an Indian goal remained elusive in the first quarter.
Meanwhile, the hosts created some good chances in the final five minutes of the first quarter, but captain and goalkeeper Savita guarding the post was outstanding in her saves when Spain was awarded a PC in the 11th minute, and she also averted a potential field goal opportunity, keeping the score at 0-0.
India started the second quarter in a dominant fashion, showing clear intent to take a lead. They built on a strong attack, with Sushila setting up a fine field goal opportunity in the 22nd minute. She assisted Neha Goyal with a swift pass in the circle, but Neha’s shot on goal bounced off the Spanish goalie Clara Perez’s pads.
Lalremsiami, the star of yesterday’s match against England, picked up the rebound and smashed it past the goalie. To ensure it popped into the net, Vandana made a slight touch to push it past the goal-line.
This early 1-0 lead gave India the edge, allowing them to make confident forays into the striking circle. They mounted pressure on Spain by dominating the ball possession in the following minutes. India extended the lead to 2-0 in the 48th minute when they worked in tandem to earn a PC.
Taking the shot, Monika was on target to send the ball past Maria Ruiz who had replaced Perez in the Spanish goal post.
Leading 2-0, India defended with all their heart, as the experienced Deep Grace Ekka, Nikki Pradhan and Sushila Chanu kept the Spanish attack in check while the forwards pushed for a third goal.
The third goal finally came in the 58th minute when a confident Udita showed patience coupled with good dribbling skills to score, thus ending India’s campaign with a 3-0 victory.
