New Zealand hammer Indian eves 5-0

India’s defence caved in against a strong New Zealand as they suffered a 0-5 loss for their second successive defeat in the league stage of the women’s Hockey World League Semifinals at the KHC Dragons Stadium here on Tuesday.

Dominating the bewildered Indian defence, Gemma Flynn and Kirsten Pearce scored two goals <g data-gr-id="18">each,</g> while Olivia Merry contributed one as World No. 4 New Zealand posted a thumping triumph for their second straight win in Pool B.

The Indian defence crumbled after matching the rivals for the initial 10 minutes of the contest. India had lost 0-1 to Belgium on the opening day, and on Wednesday they take on Poland. Poland <g data-gr-id="19">are</g> the lowest-ranked team in the group.

Hampered slightly by the cold weather, the Indian eves seemed to match the higher-ranked rivals 

and even mounted a few fine moves deep into the rival territory before the Flynn opened the scoring for the Black Sticks by swatting in a rebound from goalkeeper Savita, who had blocked a firm reverse hit by Ella Gunson. Merry stretched the lead by flicking home during goalmouth scrimmage in the 17th minute. The Indian defence lost its structure in the second session and New Zealand 

had repeated shots at the citadel.