Amsterdam: A draw was all that they needed to advance to the second phase of the Women’s Hockey World Cup.
And the Indian women did manage a 0-0 result against England on Thursday, but not before surviving several tense moments in their pool D fixture at Wagener Hockey Stadium in Amstelveen, Netherlands.
England, who desperately needed a win to qualify for the last-eight stage, threw everything they had but ran into a stubborn defence line of orange shirts who refused to let the ball slip into their goal.
After a well-fought first half, England showed urgency and pressed for the all-important goal. They forced as many as 11 penalty corners, but couldn’t beat the Indians who displayed remarkable technique and tenacity to keep the ball out of harm’s way.
In the final quarter, England were all over the Indian territory, making circle entries at will and threatening to score any moment. However, Savita goalkeeper Bichu Devi was simply outstanding, effecting numerous saves.
Moments before the final hooter, Bichu Devi kicked out Tessa Howard’s shot which looked to have goal written all over it.
The draw meant India finished second in Pool D with 5 points, while China topped with 7 points. England (2 points) were third, and will now play for 9th to 12th classification places.
India, on the other hand, will have their task cut out in their quest for a semifinal berth as they face The Netherlands and Australia.
