Madrid (Spain), June 13:
In a disappointing start to the series, Indian women team was blanked 0-3 by hosts Spain in the opening match of the five-match series at the Consejo Superior de Deportes Hockey Stadium, here today.
It was an evenly matched encounter between the two teams but the hosts were helped by the efficient finishing shown by Lola Riera (48′, 52′) and Berta Bonastre (6′) whose goals were enough to secure the victory.
Spain dominated possession in the opening quarter as 26-year-old Bonastre found herself in the right spot to score the opening goal in only the sixth minute.
The hosts looked to add a second goal but India’s defence held on throughout the first quarter.
The visitors had chances of their own, but could not produce clear goal-scoring opportunities. Skipper Rani Rampal had a glorious chance in the 14th minute but her shot ended up going wide.
India started the second quarter fairly well as Anupa Barla’s shot in the 19th minute was saved by Spanish Goalkeeper Maria Ruiz. The next minute Rani had her second chance of the match but could not get the equalising goal.(PTI)
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