The last time India faced Ghana was in the World League Round 2 in 2014-15, which they won 13-0. But much has changed in Ghana hockey since then and it was on show at the University of Birmingham hockey centre. For India, the beginning was bright as dragflick ace Gurjit Kaur found the top-left corner of the goal off the first penalty corner the team earned in the third minute. It was evident that Ghana struggled initially to adjust to the pace generated by India but what they lacked in skill they made up for in spirit and execution. They spent the first quarter defending their citadel with 10 players packing the circle, leaving India in considerable discomfort due to the lack of space. But Ghana’s inexperience weighed on them as India doubled the lead in the 28th minute when Neha’s impressive run near the post was deflected home by a defender. The first half was frustrating for India and it showed on chief coach Janneke Schopman’s face as penalty corners were wasted due to poor injection and execution.