The Indian women’s ice hockey team continued their unbeaten streak in South Africa after drawing 2-2 with the hosts in the fourth and final leg of the four-legged Test series on Sunday.
Vaishnavi Vithal Palkheplaying her debut appearance for the senior team, she featured for the Indian ice hockey team, scoring two crucial goals that helped them lead the hosts to a draw.
South Africa got off to a strong start on Sunday after a series of defeats to India. The hosts had previously lost 1-5, 0-7 and 0-4 to India.
Determined to end their four-match streak on a good note, South Africa shed first blood when they took advantage of an Indian rule violation.
With a penalty kick, Quanita Bobbs beat young Bichu goalkeeper Devi Kharibam to give South Africa the lead in the eighth minute.
India were only able to equalize in the 29th minute when a good variation from a penalty corner helped them score. Vaishnavi did well to keep calm and put the ball into the net.
South Africa took the lead again when Tarryn Lombard scored from the field in the 35th minute. The next few minutes were tense as both teams battled each other.
Vaishnavi finally brought some respite when she switched to the computer in the 51st minute. India did well, tightening up their defense in the closing minutes of the match to secure a draw.
This was India’s final game against the South African side before they face world No. 1 Netherlands on January 23.
