Hockey: Indian eves beat China in under-18 Asia Cup tie

Riding on midfielder Lalremsiami's twin strikes and forward Sangita Kumari's late goal, the Indian women's under-18 hockey team beat China 3-2 in a closely contested match at the fourth women's Asia Cup here on Saturday.

India were off to a quick start as their first goal came in the 7th minute, with Lalremsiami converting a smart chance to give India the lead.

With five minutes of the first half to go, Lalremsiami doubled her tally and India's lead going into the break.

China came out stronger in the second half, Gu Yangyan scoring a penalty corner goal in the 40th minute to bridge the deficit.

India held the control and the possession throughout this period but were unable to create clear opportunities. In the 51st minute, Yangyan scored the equaliser via a penalty stroke.

India didn't let their heads drop though, and instead rallied to score a goal that would prove to be the winner. Sangita Kumari took full advantage of a penalty corner as she netted a goal to give India a 3-2 victory.

Speaking after the game, coach Baljeet Singh said: "It was a big game for us, and I am proud that despite losing an advantage in the second half we rallied and got the victory. It showed the strength of the players, mentally and physically."

--IANS

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