In an unmatched show of skill and dominance at the Asian Games, the Indian women's hockey team delivered a crushing 13-0 defeat to Hong Kong in their final pool match, paving their way to the semifinals. This spectacular performance was held on Tuesday, with Vandana Katariya, vice-captain Deep Grace Ekka, and Deepika each notching hat-tricks.
Vandana's hat-trick came with field goals in the 2nd, 16th, and 48th minutes. Deep Grace demonstrated her penalty corner prowess by converting three in the 11th, 34th, and 42nd minutes. Deepika, not to be overshadowed, mirrored her senior teammates with goals in the 4th, 54th, and 58th minutes. Sangita Kumari, Monika, and Navneet Kaur also contributed, ensuring their presence on the scoreboard.
With this emphatic win, India now commands the top spot in Pool A, boasting 10 points from four matches. Their goal difference significantly overshadows the second-placed South Korea, who sits with seven points and an upcoming match against Malaysia.
From the initial whistle, India showcased complete authority over the game. Within just two minutes, Vandana, capitalizing on a pass from Navneet Kaur, set the scoreboard rolling for India. Though the team had a couple of missed opportunities with back-to-back penalty corners, it didn't dampen their spirits. In a swift counter-attack, Deepika found the net, courtesy of Vandana's assist. With Monika and Deep Grace adding to the tally, India wrapped the first quarter with a formidable 4-0 lead.
The second quarter mirrored the first, with India's offensive persisting. Vandana added another to her count with a signature tomahawk shot, and Sangita soon found the back of the net, giving India a comfortable 6-0 lead at halftime.
Post halftime, the Indian team's onslaught was unrelenting. Deep Grace adeptly converted two penalty corners, completing her hat-trick. Vandana followed suit, securing her third with another tomahawk, while Deepika, with two scorching penalty corner flicks, equaled her peers. Meanwhile, Sangita and Navneet also added to Hong Kong's misery with a goal each.
This splendid victory sets up India for a thrilling semifinal clash against the second-placed team from Pool B this Thursday. Fans are now eagerly awaiting another masterful display from the Indian women's hockey team.
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