Hockey World League: Indian women beat Poland 3-1 to get their first win of the tournament

India got their first win of the HWL

Hockey fans must have been deeply disappointed with the way the Indian senior women’s team performed in their first two games against hosts Belgium and New Zealand at the Hockey World League (HWL). The appalling display against the Black Sticks to some extent nullified the good work they did in the Hawke’s Bay Cup in New Zealand, where they gave all top teams a run for their money.

Up against the weakest team in Pool B – Poland – the Indian women had their best chance to lift their morale, but were not allowed to break free although there was little doubt about their dominance in possession.

The Indians appeared jittery after the goalless opening quarter and ensured some nervy moments when Poland seemed to have taken the lead much against the run of play, but the goal was disallowed after India took their referral. It served as a wake-up call for India, who pulled ahead off a penalty corner conversion by Rani Rampal – their first goal of the HWL coming in their third tie.

India were clearly feeling better with the 1-0 lead and soon doubled it when Vandana Katariya set up a goal for Rani Rampal to complete a brace as India went into half-time with a 2-0 lead.

Poland kept India on a tight leash in the third quarter and the final quarter saw the Poles pull one back hotting up the contest in the dying moments. India’s nerves were eased when the roles were reversed as Rani Rampal created the third goal for Vandana Kataria, who deflected Rani’s rasping shot to settle the result of the match.

India face a tough clash against Australia on 27^th June in their final league match at 11.30 pm.