In the opening game of 3-match series at the MATE Stadium in Adelaide on Thursday, the Indian women’s hockey team suffered a 2-4 defeat against Australia.
Sangita Kumari (29′) and Sharmila Devi (40′) scored for India, while Aisling Utri (21′), Maddy Fitzpatrick (27′), Alice Arnott (32′), and Courtney Schonell (35′) scored for Australia. Australia quickly settled into a passing rhythm and dominated India in the first quarter, controlling the majority of possession and repeatedly testing the visitors’ defense.
The hosts also won three penalty corners in the first quarter but were unable to capitalize as the Indian team’s Captain and goalkeeper Savita, along with the defense line, stood strong to prevent Australia from taking the lead.
However, thanks to their high tempo and attacking game, Australia scored two goals in the second quarter. Courtney Schonell and Abigail Wilson combined well before the latter put in a cross across the goal for Aisling Utri to put the ball in India’s goal. Maddy Fitzpatrick (27′) doubled the lead for the hosts after converting a penalty corner.