CAPE TOWN: The Indian women's hockey team drew 2-2 with the hosts in its fourth match against them on Sunday, maintaining its perfect record throughout its South African tour.
Prior to facing the Netherlands, the No. 1 team in the world, on January 23, this was India's final contest against the South African team.
Vaishnavi Vithal Palkhe, who was making her senior squad debut, stood out for the group, scoring two important goals that allowed them to hold the home team to a draw.
After a string of defeats against India, South Africa got off to a great start on Sunday. The host team had so far lost to India 1-5, 0-7, and 0-4 times. South Africa was the first to score a goal as they took advantage of an Indian mistake in an effort to end the games against India favourably.
Quanita Bobbs successfully converted their given penalty shot in the eighth minute, outdueling youthful goalie Bichu Devi Kharibam.
Only in the 29th minute, when a strong PC variation enabled them to score, did India manage to draw even. Vaishnavi did well to maintain her composure and drive the ball into the post.
When Tarryn Lombard made a field goal in the 35th minute, South Africa was able to retake the lead. The ensuing few minutes remained heated as both sides played competitively.
When Vaishnavi switched from a PC in the 51st minute, some relief was at last provided. In order to ensure that they left the game with a draw, India did well to strengthen their defence in the last moments.
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