Hockey, Asian Champions Trophy: India comfortably beat Malaysia to secure second win

India registered their second consecutive victory at the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy 2023 in a high scoring encounter in Ranchi on Saturday. Goals from Vandana Katariya (7’, 21’), Sangita Kumari (28’), Lalremsiami (28’), and Jyoti (38’) helped India win 5-0.

India began proceedings with intensity, deploying a high press and searching for a breakthrough from the very first minute, while India’s resilient defence made circle penetration a challenging task for Malaysia.

Following back-to-back penalty corners, India found their first goal after Ishika Chaudhary’s injection led to a goal from Katariya. With a few minutes left in the first quarter, India were awarded yet another penalty corner, but Deep Grace Ekka’s dragflick was denied by a brilliant save from Malaysian goalkeeper Nur Zainal.

The second quarter began with an early opportunity for India but Katariya’s tomahawk was saved by Nur Zainal. India earned a penalty corner and this time Chaudhary’s injection was received by Jyoti before a deft touch from Katariya registered India’s second goal of the night.

In the 27th minute, a promising move by India led Lalremsiami to find Sangita Kumari deep in the circle. A smart finish from Sangita ensured that India’s lead was extended to 3-0. Less than a minute later, Salima...

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