NEW DELHI: In a remarkable display of skill and dominance, the Indian Women's Hockey Team kicked off their Asian Games 2023 campaign in style with a resounding 13-0 victory over Singapore. The thrilling match unfolded at the Gongshu Canal Sports Park Stadium in Hangzhou, China, on Wednesday, September 27, leaving spectators in awe of the team's prowess.
Spearheading this impressive win was Sangita Kumari, who achieved a sensational hattrick, leaving an indelible mark on the game. However, Sangita was not alone in her goal-scoring feat, as several other players contributed to the scoreboard. Udita, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Deepika, Navneet Kaur, Deep Grace Ekka, Neha, Salima Tete, Monika, and Vandana Katariya all made their presence felt by finding the back of the net. On the flip side, Singapore's valiant effort went unrewarded, as they struggled to make an impact and failed to score.
From the outset, India seized control of the match, applying relentless pressure and launching waves of attacks against Singapore. This relentless pursuit quickly earned them two early penalty corners, with Udita capitalizing on the second one to provide India with a well-deserved lead just six minutes into the game. Shortly thereafter, India was awarded a penalty stroke, which Sushila executed with precision, extending their lead to 2-0 within the first eight minutes.
India's offensive onslaught continued, with Deepika converting a penalty corner in the 11th minute. Navneet added to Singapore's woes, netting two goals in quick succession at the 14th minute, one from a penalty corner and the other by craftily maneuvering past Singapore's defenders and goalkeeper. By the end of the first quarter, India had already established a formidable 5-0 lead.
The second quarter saw a continuation of India's dominance. They maintained control of the game through superior ball possession and relentless attacks. This approach paid dividends, as Deep and Neha effortlessly converted penalty corners in the 17th and 19th minutes, respectively. Sangita Kumari, who had already etched her name on the scoresheet, scored a brilliant field goal in the 23rd minute, sending India into halftime with a commanding 8-0 lead.
India continued their relentless performance in the third quarter. Salima Tete added another field goal in the 35th minute, ensuring that India entered the final quarter with an imposing 9-0 lead. The Indian team showed no signs of letting up in the final stretch. Sangita Kumari, already a standout performer, added two more goals in the 47th and 53rd minutes. Monika and Katariya joined the scoring party, netting one goal each in the 52nd and 56th minutes, respectively. The match concluded with India emerging victorious with an astonishing 13-0 scoreline.
With this commanding win, the Indian Women's Hockey Team set the tone for their Asian Games 2023 campaign. Looking ahead, they will face Malaysia on Friday, September 29, at 4 PM IST in their second Pool A match, which also includes South Korea and Hong Kong. Skipper Savita, reflecting on the team's performance, said, "It was a good performance, we are happy with the result. The young girls complemented the seniors well. It made our job easy." She emphasized their focus on taking each match as it comes, preparing for the upcoming challenge against Malaysia, and ultimately aiming to secure a direct qualification for the Olympics. In their pursuit of success, the Indian Women's Hockey Team remains steadfast and determined.
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