Indian eves hold Chile in thrilling 2-2 stalemate

The Indian women's team settled for a 2-2 draw against Chile in a closely-fought first match ahead of the all-important Hockey World League Round 2 here in West Vancouver last evening.

It was Chile who got off to a positive start with an 18th minute field goal by Agustina Venegas to take a 1-0 lead.

It didn't help India's cause when Renuka Yadav was handed a green card only a minute before Chile converted the goal.

However, India held their nerves to score an equalizer in the 35th minute. Anupa Barla was responsible for the team's first goal through a successful penalty corner.

Almost immediately, Vandana Katariya scored a stunning field goal in the 36th minute to take a 2-1 lead.

Though the Indian team led by Rani put up a good defence to restrict Chile from the striking circle, a foot-foul led to Chile being awarded a penalty corner.

Agustina Venegas made complete use of the opportunity to successfully convert the penalty corner in the 53rd minute to draw the match 2-2.

India will now take on Canada in their next match before they begin their World League Round 2 campaign on April 1 against Uruguay in their Pool A encounter.