With an aim to register their first win in the FINTRO Hockey World League Semi- Final 2015 (Women), India and Poland clashed against each other today where India had a convincing win over Poland 3-1. While the first quarter was a dry run for both the teams it was the second quarter which finally saw goals getting scored, even marking India opening its account and going on to win the match 3-1.

The game displayed a set of fearless performances by both the teams who made full efforts to utilize the scoring opportunities that came their way. India displayed a polished defence and a good control of the ball possession through the match which strictly denied the Poland’s entry into the circle. In the dying minutes of the first quarter, India earned its first penalty corner but failed to convert it. As both the teams failed to open their account, the first quarter went goalless.

Unfolding the second quarter of the game, Indian eves ensured possession of the ball coupled with brilliant stickwork. It was in the 20th minute when a penalty corner opportunity was slammed by Rani efficiently which helped India take the lead in the game. Looking at increasing the goal difference it was Rani yet again who was seen in action in the D as she perfectly placed the ball into the nets in the in the 29th minute leaving the opponents stunned and frustrated. With the end of the first half, the score was 2-0 in favour of India.

With the change of the sides, Poland made desperate attempts to put themselves into the frame but was unable to break the resolute defence of the Indian team. The Indian girls continued to put in some serious pressure on the other side and showcased a wonderful piece of interception throughout the match. With Poland unable to score any goal, the third quarter ended with a 2-0 with India still having a lead over Poland.

Maintaining the same momentum, India opened the last quarter of the game on the front foot and showed some strength and dynamism to close the gaps but it was Natalia Wisniewska finally netted ball in her team’s favor in the 49th minute through a field effort, taking the score to 1-2. India looking at adding another goal, 54th minute saw Rani pass the ball to Vandana Katariya who was standing right next to the goal box and who on her side did not make a mistake in deflecting the ball into the nets, taking the score to 3-1 and which sealed the game in India’s favor.