Indian junior hockey girls thrash New Zealand 6

Breda (The Netherlands), July 23: India will seek their first victory in women’s Volvo global Under-21 hockey tournament when they face New Zealand here on Friday.

It was a commendable performance from captain Rani who scored a hat-trick.

India conceded the first goal just seven minutes into the game as Horler scored a field goal.

At half time, India led 3-0. “Our defence even has to come out strong and ensure that we do not give away easy goals”.

India was seen putting extra efforts in the game to level the scores with England as they tried to create goal scoring opportunities for themselves on many occasions but were restricted by England.

The second half continued with the same momentum as Indian eves dominated the match and maintained constant pressure on the New Zealand girls. It was Belgium who managed to earn a penalty corner in the first few minutes, but again Indian custodian Suraj foiled it.

Continuing their surprise attacks, the European team increased its lead in the 62nd minute when Xavier Deruyttere sounded the board with a field goal and it sealed the match for them. Rani brilliantly converted a penalty corner in the 40th minute for her third goal. New Zealand’s joy was short- lived as India’s Lily Mayengbam scored the sixth goal in the 70th minute to take the tally to 6-1 resulting in India winning the match by 6-1.

Harendra Singh-coached India finished the tournament with two wins, one draw and three losses.