Bhubaneswar: The Indian Women’s Hockey Team concluded the Bhubaneswar leg of the Hockey Pro League 2023/24 with a triumphant 3-1 victory over the United States at Kalinga Hockey Stadium on Friday. Vandana Katariya (9’), Deepika (26’), and Salima Tete (56’) contributed to India’s win, while Sanne Caarls (42’) scored the lone goal for the United States.
From the start, India showed promise with a penalty corner opportunity, but Deepika’s dragflick missed the mark. The United States responded swiftly, testing India’s Captain Savita with an attempt by Elizabeth Yeager. Midway through the first quarter, Sangita Kumari’s play led to Vandana Katariya tapping in the rebound off the goalkeeper, giving India the lead.
In the second quarter, the United States aimed to level the score, but India’s high press limited their opportunities. Deepika extended India’s lead with a well-executed reverse swing after a precise passing sequence involving Vandana Katariya. Although the United States earned a late penalty corner, Savita’s save kept India ahead 2-0 at halftime.
The third quarter saw India maintaining pressure, earning a penalty corner that Navneet Kaur narrowly missed. However, Sanne Caarls’ tomahawk shot for the United States provided a lifeline, narrowing the deficit to 2-1.
As the match entered the final quarter, both teams sought to score. Deepika’s dazzling run set up Salima Tete for a deflection, restoring India’s two-goal lead. Despite the United States’ efforts, India maintained their lead, sealing the match 3-1.
The Indian Women’s Hockey Team will face China next on February 12, at 19:30 hrs.