Asian Games Hockey: Indian women team humble Hong Kong China 13-0 to enter semis; Vandana-Deepika score hattricks

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Hangzhou, Oct 3: The Indian Women's Hockey Team on Tuesday thrashed Hong Kong China 13-0 in their last Pool A match and qualified for the semi-finals in the ongoing Asian Games 2023 in Hangzhou.

In a goal fest of a match, Vandana Kataria and Deepika scored hattricks while Deep Grace Ekka scored a brace for the Indian eves. Vandana (2', 16', 48'), Deepika (4', 54', 58') Monika (7'), Deep Grace Ekka (11', 42), Sangita Kumari (27', 55'), Vaishnavi Vithal Phalke (34'), and Navneet Kaur (58') were the goal-scorers for India.

The game kicked off with India launching a relentless offensive against Hong Kong China, leading to a commanding 4-0 advantage in the first quarter. Vandana Katariya (2') found the back of the net with a superb field goal following which Deepika (4'), and Monika (7') also contributed with a field goal each.

Additionally, India Vice Captain Deep Grace Ekka (11') successfully converted a penalty corner, securing a comfortable lead for her team.

The second quarter mirrored the first, with India maintaining their firm control over the game. They held onto possession, mounted relentless attacks, and managed to further increase their lead.

Katariya (16') showcased her prowess yet again with an impressive field goal. In addition, Sangita Kumari (27') added to India's advantage by finding the back of the net, ensuring that India headed into halftime with a commanding 6-0 lead.

Even with a comfortable lead, the Indian team displayed unwavering determination in the third quarter, maintaining their dominance on the field. Vaishnavi Vithal Phalke (34') and Deep Grace Ekka (42') netted a goal each from penalty corners, further solidifying their team's position as the Indian team had an 8-0 lead at the end of the penultimate quarter.

The Indian team maintained their hunger for goals, and they executed their intent by scoring five times in the fourth quarter. Vandana Katariya (48'), Deepika (54', 58'), Sangita Kumari (55'), and Navneet Kaur (58') netted the goals in the last quarter to seal a commanding 13-0 victory in India's favour. With this win, the Savita Punia-led side remained unbeaten in the Pool stage and they will now compete in the semi-finals on Thursday (October 5).