Girls show Kiwis zeal

Canberra, December 7

Sharmila Devi struck twice as the Indian junior women's hockey team secured a 4-1 win over New Zealand in their third match of the Three-Nation Tournament. India came from a goal down to defeat their opponents after New Zealand's Olivia Shannon had scored for her side in the fourth minute.

India scored goals through Sharmila Devi (12th, 43rd minutes), Beauty Dungdung (27th) and Lalrindiki (48th) for an impressive victory. India found the equaliser when Sharmila finished off a crisp move to make it 1-1 in the 12th minute. India managed to convert a penalty corner in the 27th minute, with forward Beauty producing a sublime finish to give her team the lead.

New Zealand earned a penalty corner at the stroke of the half-time break but goalkeeper Bichu Devi Kharibam ensured India retained their 2-1 lead. Bichu was called into action again in the 40th minute but she made a diving save to protect her side's lead.

Three minutes later, it was India's chance to break away on the counter which saw Sharmila score her second field goal to extend India's lead to 3-1. In the 48th minute, forward Lalrindiki got past New Zealand goalkeeper Kelly Carline to make it 4-1 and secure the win for her side. India will face hosts Australia in their fourth and final match tomorrow. — PTI

India’s results at 3-Nation Tournament

• Beat New Zealand 2-0
• Drew with Australia 1-1
• Beat New Zealand 4-1