India beat Ireland 2-1 to keep final hopes alive

Indian women bounced back after their opening match setback as they beat Ireland 2-1 in their second league tie in the Four Nation hockey tournament at Parana in Argentina on Friday.

India led 2-0 at half time through goals by striker Anuradha Thokchom (6th minute) and defender Jaspreet Kaur (33rd). Ireland reduced the margin in the 44th minute through Cliodhna Sargent at the Parana Rowing Club ground.

Friday's win kept the Indians in contention for the final to be played on December 18. They need to beat South Africa in their last round robin league match tomorrow to play in the summit clash.

Displaying impressive cohesion and flair, Indian forwards Rani, Anuradha Thokchom, Lilima Minz, Vandana Katariya and Poonam Rani broke through the rival defence repeatedly.

India drew first blood in sixth minute when midfielder Kirandeep Kaur cut passed two Irish defenders to setup Thokchom who made no mistake in beating goalkeeper Pamela Smith Wick.

Jaspreet Kaur scored the second goal for India two minutes before the breather.

India seem to slacken a bit at the start of the second half which was encashed by Ireland as they scored in the 44th minute through Cliodhna Sargent.

India dictated the pace of the game thereafter but were unable to increase their victory margin, as attempts by Poonam Rani and Vandana Katariya were off the mark.

In another match, hosts Argentina beat South Africa 2-1 to register their second successive victory in the tournament.