Rourkela: The Indian women’s hockey team secured a remarkable 1-0 victory against Australia in the Women’s FIH Hockey Pro League 2023/24 at the Birsa Munda International Hockey Stadium on Saturday. Forward Vandana Katariya’s splendid goal in the third quarter proved to be the deciding factor, earning India their second win in the tournament.
In the early minutes of the first quarter, Australia’s pressure led to a penalty corner, but the Indian captain and goalkeeper successfully thwarted the threat. A stroke of luck favored India as Jane Claxton’s shot hit the goalpost, leaving the first quarter goalless despite intense action.
The second quarter witnessed early promise for the Indian women’s team with a penalty corner, but it went unconverted. Australia, too, had their chances with a penalty corner, but neither team managed to break the deadlock, concluding the first half without any goals.
The third quarter saw a surge in intensity from the Indian side, and their efforts were rewarded with a goal by Vandana Katariya (34′) on a penalty corner, giving India a crucial lead. Sangita Kumari’s attempt at another penalty corner didn’t find the mark. The third quarter ended with India ahead 1-0.
Australia began the final quarter with a penalty corner, which was successfully defended. A penalty corner for India in the 52nd minute did not breach the Australian defense. India maintained a solid defense, successfully overturning a penalty corner decision awarded to Australia in the dying minutes of the match.
With another penalty corner awarded to Australia in the last half-minute, a failed attempt secured India’s 1-0 victory, marking their second triumph in the tournament.
The Indian women’s hockey team is set to face the United States of America in their next match on February 18, aiming to continue their winning streak in the FIH Hockey Pro League.