New Delhi, April 16 (IANS) The Indian women’s hockey team defeated Ireland 3-1 in their first test match played in Dublin.
This tour is in preparations for the Champions Challenge 1, scheduled to be held in Glasgow from April 27.
On Tuesday, heading towards a win, the Indian team had a tough fight against Ireland and restricted a couple of goals in the first half. The hosts managed to score a goal which came through Megan Frazer in the fourth minute by converting penalty corner.
India, without giving any more opportunities to Ireland started getting a foothold on the game whereas the home side failed to further extend their lead.
In the second half, the visiting team had different plans and surprised the home team with their game which helped them turned the tables in their favour.
In the 37th minute, Poonam Rani scored off the post from a penalty corner to draw level the score at 1-1. Ireland had a good chance again in the 45th minute with another penalty corner but the visitors relieved the pressure clearing after an Irish miss-hit.
India were high on confidence and put complete pressure on Ireland and did not allow them to score further. India took the final lead in the 61st minute through field goal scored by Ritu Rani. In the 67th minute, Sunita Lakra converted penalty corner for India.
Both teams will play their second test match Thursday. While India will be looking at continuing their winning form against Ireland, the home team will be looking at levelling scores.
