Jakarta: Indian women’s Hockey team defeated Thailand 5-0 in the 18th Asian Games held here on Monday.
The Indian team had already secured its place in the semi-finals and after this win, and also secured the top spot in Pool B with 12 points. The Indian team will face Pool A’s second-placed team in the semi-finals.
Under Rani Rampal captaincy, the women’s team has scored 38 goals in four matches so far, and only one goal has been scored against them. After defeating Indonesia 8-0, Kazakhstan 21-0, defending champion Korea 4-1, India beat Indonesia 5-0.
However, Thailand’s defense did well, but Rani Rampal managed to score her first goal at Asian Games 2018 and took India in front. A few minutes later, Rani Rampal again struck a goal taking the score to 2-0.
So, far India didn’t score any goals in the penalty corner, but when India got the fifth penalty, Monika quickly got to the rebound and struck it into goal. Though, the first shot from the penalty corner was saved.
Navjot Kaur scored a goal in the 54th minute and scored 4-0 and Rani completed his hat-trick with a goal in the 56th minute and put India in the match 5-0.
At half-time, India and Thailand were on 0-0. Neither team had created enough chances. India, despite having most of the possession, had failed to score a goal. They failed to convert a few chances that came.
Coach Sjeord Marijne looked relieved as his team made its way into the semifinals as indisputable toppers of Pool B.
The semi-finals are scheduled for August 29th. (UNI)
