Hockey: Indian girls enter semis of u-18 Asia Cup

India outclassed China 4-on 2 Tuesday to advance into the semi-finals of the girls U-18 hockey Asia Cup in Bangkok, Thailand.

The goal scorers for India, who led 2-0 at half time, were Navjot Kaur (11th min), Lilima Minz (34th), Poonam Rani (49th) and Anupa Barla (66th).

The goal scorers for China were Song Xia Oming (60th min) and Liang Xue (63rd).

India dominated the proceedings and began with a flourish with accurate passes and interceptions.

The forwards lead by skipper Poonam Rani supported by Neha Goyal and Anupa Barla penetrated the Chinese striking circle at regular intervals.

Indian deep defenders Jaspreet Kaur and Sandeep Kaur stood like rocks as did goalkeeper Bigen Soy, who blocked many Chinese forays in the second half.

India earned five penalty corners against seven by China.

After India had established a 3-0 lead in the 49th minute, they tended to slacken and allowed China to fire back two goals.

However, they overcame this reversal to score another goal through Anupa Barla and seal the match.

India will now play their last pool match against Malaysia Thursday before playing the semi-final on Friday.

In their earlier matches, India had routed Kazakhstan 12-0 and Sri Lanka 13-0.

With the victory over China, India are on the top of Pool B with nine points from three consecutive wins.