Murcia (Spain): The Indian women’s hockey team earned a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Spain in the second international hockey match after having lost the opening encounter by a close 2-3 margin.
Gurjit Kaur’s 43rd minute strike was nullified by home team’s Maria Tost in the 49th minute during an encounter played here, Sunday evening. The Indians however, put up a spirited performance.
While the first quarter ended in a stalemate, the second quarter saw India make earn their first penalty corner of the game. It was however, well saved by the Spanish goalkeeper.
India increased their tempo in the third quarter. They earned their second penalty corner which was brilliantly converted by Kaur with a rasping drive. Immediately after the goal, India had another chance, but Vandana shot wide.
The joy of the 1-0 lead against the 2018 Women’s World Cup bronze medal winners however, was short-lived as a defensive lapse by India provided Spain the chance to equalize through a brilliant field goal by Tost.
The final quarter remained intense until the hooter with both teams taking their game a notch above and pushing for a winning goal but neither succeeded with the match ending in a draw.
India will play their third match of the tour on Tuesday.
PTI