Eves clash against Japan for fifth spot

After pulling off a breathtaking 5-4 win in penalty shoot-out against Italy, India will look to remain in qualification for the 2016 Olympics as they take on Japan in 5th/6th position encounter at the women’s Hockey World League (HWL) Semi-Final here today.

An exhilarating game of hockey was witnessed here on Thursday when the Indian team met Italy and at the end of regulation time the scores stood tied at 1-1. What transpired post that was a <g data-gr-id="22">nail biting</g> affair where the Indian eves kept their nerves to come out winners.

They would look to do the same at the Brasschaat Municipal Park against Japan with a few of their forwards in good form.

India custodian Savita Punia said: “I think the defence will be the key tomorrow. We have to ensure we close the gaps, not allow easy access to our D, not give away penalty corners and hold the fort strong. 

This will help boost the attack to go for the kill. The initial goal will matter the most tomorrow and we are aware of that.

“The target from here is to stay in contention for Rio and a win takes us a step closer towards what we are aiming for. While we beat Japan last time around, we are not taking it as a ticket to a win today.”