The Indian Women’s Hockey Team suffered a disappointing 0-3 defeat against Australia in the FIH Hockey Pro League 2023/24. The match took place at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium in Bhubaneswar. The Australian team showcased their prowess with Grace Stewart (19′), Tatum Stewart (23′), and Kaitlin Nobbs (55′) scoring the crucial goals, as confirmed by a press release from Hockey India.
The game started with India displaying a strong attacking game, earning a penalty corner in just the second minute. However, Australia’s goalkeeper, Zoe Newman, made a brilliant save. Both teams created several scoring opportunities in the initial minutes, but were unable to convert them. The Australian team intensified their pressure towards the end of the first quarter, but the Indian defense held firm.
In the second quarter, as India looked for a breakthrough, Australia took advantage of a counter-attack. Kaitlin Nobbs found herself in the shooting circle and passed the ball to Grace Stewart, who tapped it into the net, giving Australia the lead. India made efforts to create chances but struggled with the final pass. Australia maintained their dominance with Tatum Stewart’s successful drag flick from a penalty corner, doubling the lead. Towards the end of the first half, India earned two penalty corners but failed to capitalize on either, leaving the scoreline at 2-0 in favor of Australia.
India continued to struggle in the third quarter as Australia adopted a defensive approach. India had an opportunity to score from a penalty corner in the last minute of the quarter, but Udita’s shot went wide, allowing Australia to maintain their two-goal advantage.
In the final quarter, India intensified their press and earned another penalty corner early on. However, they failed to convert it due to an attempted variation by the team. India had another chance from a penalty corner, but their frantic play resulted in no goals. Australia further extended their lead with Kaitlin Nobbs rolling the ball through Savita’s legs, securing the third goal. The match concluded with Australia emerging as the winners with a 3-0 scoreline.
India will now face the United States in their next game on February 9 at 19:30 hrs.
Overall, it was a disappointing performance by the Indian Women’s Hockey Team as they were unable to break through the solid defense of Australia and fell short in converting their scoring opportunities. India will aim to bounce back in their upcoming matches and display a stronger performance.
