Kuala Lumpur, Sept 27: Indian eves at least has something to cheer about after missing out on a berth in next year’s World Cup as they defeated China via penalty shootout to clinch the bronze medal in the eighth women’s Asia Cup hockey tournament here today.
India, who needed to win the tournament to qualify for next year’s World Cup to be held at The Hague, Netherlands, edged past China 3-2 in the shootout after both the teams were locked 2-2 at the regulation time.
By virtue of this win, the Indians managed to avenge their 0-1 defeat to the Chinese in the pool stages of the tournament.
India dominated proceedings in the first half and scored two field goals through Anuradha Devi Thokchom (16th minute) and Vandana Katariya (31st) to go into the breather with a comfortable 2-0 lead.
The Indian girls managed to hold on to their lead after the lemon break and denied any openings to the nimble-footed Chinese till the 51st minute.
China pulled one back in the 51st minute through Yan Yan’s field goal to liven up the match. (PTI)
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