India Women Hockey Team has won the Asia Cup 2017 after a wait of 13 years and we can’t keep calm! With this spectacular performance, the team has secured its spot in the 2018 Hockey World Cup. Goalkeeper Savita was at her best while she produced a magnificent save in a critical situation of the shootout. Also, Skipper Rani Rampal scored an impressive goal, thereby ensuring a 5-4 win.
The first quarter ended in a stalemate after which India tried their best to put a pressure on China for a breakthrough. After a failed attempt in the 17th minute, Indian team found the first breakthrough in the 25th minute. It was quite a game when Navneet and Rani kept playing the give-and-take until they penetrated the circle and assisted Navjot to secure a goal.
Image Courtesy: Times Of India
Also Read: Asia Hockey Cup 2017- Indian Men’s Team bag the Title after 10 years
Although China came up with a counterattack, Indians were quite keen on the defense aspect. In the third quarter, both the teams showcased an equally strong competition. After the 47th minute when China had secured through a PC (Penalty Corner), both the teams came at par and restrained each other from taking control over the game.
With less than 3 minutes left, China won their 4th PC but soon India launched a counterattack, pushing the game to a stalemate. However, in the penalty shootout, goalkeeper Savita brilliantly saved another goal from China, bringing the India Women Hockey team to a win by 5-4. Owing to her spectacular performance, Savita was adjudged as the ‘Goalkeeper of the Tournament’.
Image Courtesy: Asian Hockey Federation
Discussing others on the team, Skipper Rani hit the target twice while Monica, Lilima, and Navjot Kaur found one target each, in the shootout. This win for India has surely given a boost to the morale of the team as there are many crucial games lined up in the future. Last time, India had won the Asia Cup in 2010 by beating Japan but now the 13-year old curse has been broken, and may we say it was worth the wait!
