India, led by Captain Rani, started the match on a positive note earning a penalty corner within 40 seconds of the start but could not convert it. Two minutes later, another PC was saved by the Belgian goalkeeper.
The second quarter saw both sides taking a more direct approach as Belgium enjoyed more possession which paid off for them as they took the lead through Stan Branicki in the 19th minute. India soon earned a penalty corner but their effort was saved by the Junior World Cup finalists’ goalkeeper which meant Belgium led by a goal at the end of second quarter.
Third quarter started on a bright note for India as Nikki Pradhan levelled the score in 36th minute. India dominated the third quarter as midfielder Neha Goyal came close to scoring but was denied by another brilliant save by Belgium’s goalkeeper. However, the home team took the lead again in the 43rd minute as they rallied for a wonderful field goal scored by Matthieu de Laet.
Belgium Junior Men’s team started the fourth quarter swiftly as Indian goalkeeper Rajani Etimarpu had to make a reflex save. Indian Women’s Team fought back into the match in the dying stages as Vandana Katariya (54th minute) scored with just few minutes left to full time and equalise the scores at 2-2.
India will play Ladies Den Bosch in their third match of the Europe Tour on September 14, 2017 at 2130 hrs IST.
Please find attached the updated schedule and action photos from the match between Indian Women’s Hockey team and Belgium Junior Men’s team.
