The Hockeyroos comprehensively outplayed a shaky Savita Punia-led team at Mate Stadium.
A rusty Indian women’s hockey team lost 2-4 to world No. 3 in the first of the three Test matches between the two teams on Thursday. This was the team’s first international game in four months.
Australia rapidly established a passing rhythm and frequently put India’s defence to the test in the opening frame. The home team also secured three penalty corners (PC), but were unable to convert because Australia’s defence and custodian Savita made good stops to prevent the home team from grabbing the lead.
Australia opened the third period with a quick goal through Arnott, and the hosts added a fourth goal through Schonell (35′). India, behind 1-4, managed to get one back thanks to Sharmila’s successful short corner.
Despite several opportunities for both teams to score in the last quarter, neither team managed to do so.