Women’s Pro League: India frustrate Dutch before going down 0-1

Rourkela, February 14

The Indian women’s hockey team dished out a much-improved defensive show against powerhouse Netherlands but the lack of sharpness and innovative moves upfront saw them lose the FIH Pro League match 0-1 to the world No. 1 side.

This was the home team’s fifth defeat in six Pro League games this season. Netherlands’s goal came after a superb 27th-minute field effort from Felice Albers. Elzemiek Zandee made a fine run into the circle and sent a scorching shot towards the goal. Though Savita Punia booted it away, Albers deftly controlled the high rebound and poked it past the goalkeeper. The goal was the result of relentless pressure put on the Indian defence by the Dutch.

Savita had a momentary lapse in the 38th minute when she kicked the ball outside the circle and was shown the yellow card.

Earlier today, Australia beat China 2-0, with Grace Stewart (29th minute) and Stephanie Kershaw (57th) getting the goals.