Second defeat dashes Indian eves’ final hopes

India’s hopes to make the final of the women Asian Champions Trophy evaporated after losing 0—5 to Japan, largely due to mid—field lapses, here.

India, who suffered their second consecutive defeat in the hockey event, have no points and now play their last match against China on Thursday.

The women couldn’t take any inspiration from men’s brilliant 5—3 win over the Koreans as they struggled to play as a unit, losing balls needlessly in the midfield and not coming together when it mattered most in the Japanese striking circle.

Japanese players were not very impressive but they capitalised on India’s mistakes and took advantage of the loose balls and numerous errors in the defence.

India were the first to force a penalty corner but couldn’t find the goal to put the Japanese under pressure.

Japan, on the other hand scored in the 16th minute when captain Yukari Yamamoto fired in a field goal.

India tried to forge a few moves through the middle not taking the usual flank way but the Japanese defence held firm.

India also held onto the ball too much, the forwards guilty of wayward passing and not giving the ball when teammates were in a better position. On a counter—attack, Japan got the second goal when Rika Komazawa fired in from the top of the circle.

At the break, Japan led 2—0.