World champs Netherlands hammer Indian women 7-0

Antwerp, June 30 

The Indian women crashed out in the quarterfinals of the Hockey World League Semifinals after they were hammered 7-0 by world champions The Netherlands here today. The Indian defence wilted under the pace set by the Dutch, for whom Caia van Maasakker converted three penalty corners and Lidewij Walten scored twice.

World No. 13 India were no match for the World Cup and Olympic title holders, whose goal was threatened only twice through two penalty corners that India forced in the second half.

In the semifinal encounter, The Netherlands will take on Australia, the silver medallists at the World Cup last year, who prevailed 2-0 over minnows Italy in the quarterfinals. India will face Italy in the fifth to eight classification spots.

The Dutch goal rampage began in the opening minute when Naomi van Ass dribbled along the goal-line from the right and beat Indian custodian Savita with a deft scoop. 

India managed to break into the rival circle first time in the fourth minute, when Vandana Katariya shot diagonally into the goalkeeper.

The Dutch, however, scored again in the ninth minute from their first penalty corner — Willemijn Bos’s drive was deflected in by Walten.

The Dutch were denied a goal on their second penalty corner in the last minute of the first quarter. But Van Maasakker scored the first of her goals, 

with a low drag-flick into the right corner, in the 16th minute. 

India seek to plug defence against Malaysia

Soundly thrashed by Australia in their last match, India would look to sort out their defensive woes when they take on Malaysia in their quarterfinal match tomorrow.

The Indian defenders will be tested by the nippy Malaysians. Malaysia would draw confidence from their 3-2 victory in their last fixture, at the Azlan Shah Cup, two months ago. 

Malaysia are expected to throw everything into the contest as it could secure them qualification for the Olympic Games.

“Malaysia are a tough side, we need to be at our best to be able to match them. We must capitalise on the chances we get,” said captain Sardar Singh. — PTI

HWL Semifinals 

Results

Women (Quarterfinals)

Australia bt Italy 2-0

New Zealand bt Japan 5-1 

Netherlands bt India 7-0

INDIA TODAY

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