s2h team
Indian women led ably by ebullient goalkeeper Savita Punia won the inaugural FIH Hockey Nations Cup 2022, hanging on to an early goal. Gurjit Kaur struck the solitary goal of the grand finale in the 6th minute and then the defence led by veteran Deep Grace Ekka stood to ground not allowing hardworking and pushing home side any leeway. Earlier, India overcame stiff contest against Ireland in the semis in a tense shoot out.
The Valencia victory is second FIH Tournament win for India, after it did the same in Hiroshima in the run up to the Tokyo Olympic qualifier.
Spaniard were thoroughly unlucky to lose a goal which did not stand India’s referral. The goal, as per the third umpire decision, was struck at the expense of five yard rule.
India’s early aggression earned its penalty corner of which Gurjit Kaur did the encoure.
India displayed a great degree of disciplined defence. Despite facing unending attacks, conceding more circle entries, did not yield too many penalty corners or shots. That India gave away just two penalty corners in the second half when it was under pressure, speak volume for India’s tenacity and superb defence.
Neha Goyal in the midfield stood to ground, and fittingly was declared Best player of the final.
India remained undefeated in the entire week, overcoming Chile, Japan, South Africa before drawing Ireland in the semis. Rest is history.
Early in the year, India lost to Spain in the World Cup which cost them heavily. This win turned out to be the sweet revenge. The dividend of course is getting entry into the FIH Pro-league.
FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup Spain 2022
Individual Awards
Best Player: Lucia Jimenez (ESP)
Best Junior Player: Sarah Mcauley (IRL)
Best Goalkeeper: Savita (IND)
Hero Top Scorer: Kathryn Mullan (IRL)