India began their Women’s Junior Asia Cup hockey campaign in ardent fashion, routing Bangladesh 13-1 in their Pool A opener on Sunday. The defending champions showcased their dominance, with Mumtaz Khan leading the charge by scoring four goals, while Kanika Siwach and Deepika each netted a hat-trick.
Goal Scorers:
Mumtaz Khan (27th, 32nd, 53rd, 58th)
Kanika Siwach (12th, 51st, 52nd)
Deepika (7th, 20th, 55th)
Manisha (10th)
Beauty Dung Dung (33rd)
Sakshi Rana (43rd, Vice-Captain)
Orpita Pal (12th minute) was the lone scorer for Bangladesh, converting her team’s only penalty corner.
Match Highlights:
India wasted no time asserting their dominance, taking the lead in the seventh minute when Deepika converted a penalty corner with a well-timed flick. Just three minutes later, Manisha capitalized on another penalty corner to double India’s advantage. In the 12th minute, Kanika Siwach scored India’s third goal, exploiting a defensive lapse from Bangladesh.
Bangladesh briefly celebrated in the first quarter when Orpita Pal converted her team’s only penalty corner. However, the joy was short-lived, as India continued to pile on the goals, scoring consistently across all quarters.
Commanding Performance:
India’s superior quality was evident throughout the game, particularly in penalty corners. The defending champions earned a staggering 12 penalty corners compared to Bangladesh’s solitary effort. This advantage allowed India to control the pace of the game and maintain pressure on their opponents.
Mumtaz Khan was clinical in front of goal, finding the net four times and showcasing her ability to exploit gaps in the defense. The hat-tricks from Kanika and Deepika further underlined India’s attacking depth, while Beauty Dung Dung and vice-captain Sakshi Rana added to the team’s impressive tally.
A Strong Start for India:
India’s commanding victory sets the tone for their campaign as they aim to defend their Junior Asia Cup title. The team’s fluid attack, clinical finishing, and defensive discipline will serve them well in the upcoming matches.
This resounding win highlights India’s potential to dominate the tournament and reinforces their position as favorites to retain their championship title.