CWG: India Eye New Zealand Scalp In Women's Hockey Bronze Medal Match

The India women's hockey team would look to put the horrendous 'clock' controversy behind its back while eyeing a podium finish when it takes on New Zealand in the bronze medal match in the Commonwealth Games on Sunday. A timekeeping faux pas by a technical official during the penalty shootout robbed India's opportunity as Australia beat the Savita Punia-led side 3-0 from one-one-situation. Both the teams were locked 1-1 at the end of regulation time.

Rosie Malone fluffed Australia's first attempt in the penalty shoot-out as India skipper Savita pulled off an excellent block.

But Malone got a second chance after the officials timekeeping error and this time the striker scored to change the momentum of the game.

Going into Sunday's crucial game, mental adjustment will be key for the Indians as they aim a bronze, a year after losing to Great Britain 3-4 to finish a historic fourth at the Tokyo Olympics.

"Whatever happened yesterday was unfortunate and shocking but we have to come back again. This is another opportunity for us to get a CWG medal," vice-captain Deep Grace Ekka told PTI.

Vandana Katariya scored a peach of a goal on Saturday to help India bounce back and level 1-1 against the mighty Australians to take the match into shoot-out.

"Everyone was very sad. It's obvious. But now, the next match is very important for us. We all have to move on and make a strong comeback. We have time in our hands. It's a do-or-die for us and we will give our best," said India captain Savita. Savita was at her best, especially at the closing stages of the match denying Australia from a flurry of penalty corners.

The key for the Indian attack would once again be their star forward Vandana.

Chief coach Janneke Schopman had her hopes