Singapore [Malaysia], Nov. 2 : India raced to an emphatic 2-0 win over Malaysia in their third pool match of the 4th Women's Asian Champions Trophy yesterday.
With this win, India continue to top the pool table with seven points over Korea, China, Japan and Malaysia respectively.
Playing the first game of the day, India were under pressure to stay in contention for the knockout stay and they did not disappoint.
Any hopes of Malaysia taking the lead was undone in the first seven minutes, as Poonam Rani scored a well-executed field goal to give India the lead.
Now that they were off to a strong start, Indian eves were stubborn in defence through the game not allowing the Malaysian women too many forays into their D and constantly keeping them at bay.
In fact, right till the end, the Malaysian team was denied an opportunity to seek penalty corner. Though the opponents took desperate attempts at field goals, they were palmed away rather brilliantly by Indian custodian Rajani to help preserve India's lead.
The game was a perfect example of how far the Indian eves have come and the positive impact the Rio Olympic appearance has had on them.
The Indian eves continued to put up an inspired show as they came back stronger after the halftime, when Deepika converted a penalty corner in the 45th minute.
Until now, India had three failed attempted at converting a penalty corner despite trying different variations, however, Deepika's experience and presence of mind helped in taking a 2-0 lead over a hapless Malaysian team.
With this goal, Deepika became the highest goal scorer in the tournament with three goals against her name.
The final quarter saw India hold their nerves, play tactful hockey and denied any room for Malaysia to come back into the game thus earning a well-deserved victory.
Next, India will take on China on November 4..
Source: ANI
