CWG 2022: India waste chances but trounce Ghana

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.

The link-up play left a lot to be desired and the players failed to use the flanks. All along, the Ghana players grew in confidence and even made a couple of bold circle penetrations. India upped their game after half-time. The scoreline would have swelled if not for some outstanding effort by goalkeeper Abigali Boye and fearless defence by Adizatu Sulemana. In the third quarter, India struck twice in quick succession. First Monica found Sangita Kumari, who put the ball into an empty net in the 36th minute. ' Gurjit followed it up with a penalty corner conversion three minutes later. Salima Tete added the finishing touches to the scoreline when Ghana skipper Nafisatu Umaru deflected the ball in on the goal line. India