India manages to edge past Malaysia 2-1 in Asian Junior Women Hockey

India managed to get past Malaysia 2-1 in the AHF Hockey Junior Women Asia Cup at Kawasaki Heavy Industries Hockey Stadium in Kakamigahara, Japan, on Monday. It was India’s second win in as many matches.

Earlier, the hosts Japan, continued its goal scoring spree by recording yet another big win. In its second game, the hosts defeated Indonesia 21-0. In the first game, Japan had beaten Hong Kong China 23-0.

Uzbekistan, after losing 0-22 to India, suffered yet another big defeat, losing its second game to Korea 0-13. In yet another game Kazakhstan got the better of Hong Kong China 3-0.

Contrary to expectations, Malaysia put up a gallant show in its game against pre-tournament favourites India. Malaysians played so much controlled hockey that they had their opponents struggling throughout the game.

In fact, it was Malaysia that took the lead in the sixth minute when Dian Nazeri scored an opportunist fail in the 6^th minute after Indian defence fumbled in clearing a loose ball. Four minutes later, India restored parity when Mumtaz Khan converted a penalty corner. After her flick, the ball went up in the air before it landed in the Malaysian net.

Gurdip Kirandeep, a girl of Punjabi origin playing for Malaysia, stood out for her good stickwork and ball control.

Four minutes before the breather, it was Deepika who scored from a penalty stroke after she was brought down in the striking circle while attempting a shot at the goal.

With two wins, India now has a maximum six points.

Prabhjot Singh