Memorable day as old nemesis is whopped five times over

The win over South Korea is bound to be rated higher even than the silver medal they secured at the previous Asia Cup in 1999. On that occasion, an experienced Indian team had lost to Korea by the golden goal. But this time the team comprising mainly of rookies displayed a high degree of professionalism and fighting spirit to thrash the Koreans.

The Indians played attacking hockey and though they began slowly in the first half — they were leading 1-0 at the break, the second half saw them break loose. The situation required the Indians to press hard and attack since the Korean attack would fizzle out after entering the Indian midfield.

In the later stage of the second half, even promising 16-year-old Jasjeet Kaur got an opportunity to be among the scorers. The youngster was roughly tackled in the Korean D, the umpire awarded a penalty stroke, which was easily converted by Jasjeet.

The good going even brought a transformation in India’s biggest problem — converting PCs. They earned five PCs in the match and struck twice, far better than earlier in the tournament. Both goals were off direct hits, the option India prefer to the drag-flick. There were doubts over Suman Bala’s ability with the hits, but her confidence was soaring and she made no mistakes.

It was systematic planning in all areas and the defence was on high alert throughout the match courtesy veteran player and captain Suraj Lata Devi.

She was the key defender in the D and guided them out of trouble whenever there was an attack from the Korean forwards. Expecting a cakewalk in the semifinal, the Koreans lost their nerve totally against the more organised teamwork of the Indian team.

Results (semis)

Scorers: Sanggai Chanu (2), Suman Bala (2) and Jasjeet Kaur

Japan beat China 6-2

Scorers: For Japan – Sakae Morimoto (2), Miura Keiko, Rika Komazawa, Tomomi Komori and Naoka Saito. For China – Ma Yibo (2)