Commonwealth Games 2014: Indian eves face South Africa in a must win game

IANS
Indian team will look to book a berth in the semifinal with a win over South Africa

Glasgow, July 29 (IANS) After a massive 14-0 thrashing of Trinidad and Tobago, India eves will be looking to continuing their dominating form when they face South Africa in their next group match of the hockey competition at the 2014 Commonwealth Games at the Glasgow National Hockey Centre on Wednesday.

Jaspreet Kaur, Deepika and Rani, who scored three goals each against the Caribbean side, have been in dominating form and India will be looking towards the three forwards to book a berth in the semi-finals.

With two wins each, both India and South Africa know that it is a must-win game for both of them, for a loss would mean having to play for the 5th/6th position.

While South Africa will be looking at their experienced captain Marsha Cox to guide them through, Ritu Rani will be looking at her young brigade to come out firing all cylinders.

India will take many positives from their last outing against Trinidad and Tobago. Their penalty corner conversion was good, they showed good coordination with their passes and converted field goals at important junctures.

"Tomorrow's match is very important for us as the result will decide our fate in this edition of the Commonwealth Games The entire team understands this but we are not allowing the pressure of this all important match to overtake us. The girls aspire for a win tomorrow and the entire unit will ensure this and enter the semi-final stage," said India captain Ritu Rani.

India coach Neil Hawgood also agreed that it was a must-win game for the team.

"It's a must win match tomorrow and the girls are all set to take on the challenge of South Africa. While they are ranked 11th and we are 13th, this will not deter the girls to go out there for the win tomorrow. The team has worked on their passes and penalty corner conversions and this was evident in our last outing yesterday," he said.

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