Pro League: Katariya wins it for India

Rourkela, February 17

Forward Vandana Katariya scored from a penalty corner to help the Indian women’s hockey team stun world No. 3 Australia 1-0 in the FIH Pro League here today.

Katariya scored in the 34th minute as world No. 9 India registered their second win of the tournament and also avenged last week’s 0-3 loss to Australia in Bhubaneswar.

India were under severe pressure throughout the game, but kept compact at back to keep the Australians at bay. The first two quarters saw plenty of action with both the teams making quite a few circle entries. However, it was highlighted by Jane Claxton hitting the woodwork.

India brought a whole new level of intensity in the third quarter and were justly rewarded with a goal as they broke the deadlock courtesy a stunning goal from Katariya, who dived to put the ball into the back of the net off a penalty corner.