Deepika strikes in India’s win in SA tour-opener

Deepika converted a penalty corner in the last quarter to lead Indian women hockey team to a 1-0 win over hosts South Africa in their tour-opener. Both the teams were cautious, trying to assess each other’s playing style. The game was mostly played in the midfield but superb defensive play by both the teams ensured a goal-less first half.

The third period saw a shift in the game plan with attacking play from both the sides but none of the teams managed to break the deadlock and the penultimate period also ended with the 0-0 score. India pressed hard and their efforts finally reaped rewards in the 55th minute through a penalty corner conversion by Deepika.