Women's Hockey World Cup: India lose to Ireland in shootout
The semi-final dream of the Indian women's hockey team was quashed, when they lost against Ireland in a shootout in the quarters at the ongoing World Cup. Rani Rampal's side stood tall against a resilient Irish eves side, but it was their goal-keeper Ayeisha McFerran, who dented India's hopes after saving three strikes in the shoot out. Here is what happened.
How the shoot out panned out?
India lost the battle 1-3 in the shoot out after the match ended at 0-0. Rampal, Monika and Navjot Kaur failed to convert their strikes with McFerran staying strong. India scored a solitary goal through Reena Khokar. India's goal-keeper Savita produced two saves but it wasn't enough. Ireland's Roisin Upton, Alison Meeke and Chloe Watkins all scored in the shoot-off.
Ireland's maiden semis
India can draw a lot of positives from this WC
The Indian eves gave a decent account of themselves throughout and will be looking to draw a lot of positives from this tourney. They only suffered two losses and both were against Ireland. Earlier, Rampal's side had lost 0-1, against Irish women, in the group stage. Both teams had a solid defense and there was nothing to separate the two. McFerran made the difference.
India need to shift their focus on Asian Games
The focus for team India will now be the Asian Games next. Rampal's side know they have improved vastly and it's time they win silverware. The experience of playing such a big tourney will help the Indian eves in the Asian Games. Ireland are lower than India in rankings, but they are enjoying the form of their lives.
