Preview: India eves take on United States in playoff

India were hammered by New Zealand in the quarter-finals

Hastings (New Zealand), April 17 (IANS): The Indian women's hockey team will look to turn the tables when they take on the United States in a 5-8 position classification playoff in the Hawke's Bay Cup here on Saturday.

The winning team will then proceed to the 5-6 position playoff while the loser will play the 7-8 spot match at the Hastings Sports Park on Sunday.

The United States had beaten India 4-2 during the pool phase but following that they delivered a brilliant performance to draw 0-0 against the mighty Australians.

However, in the quarter-final, India were thrashed 1-4 by hosts New Zealand. The Asian team will look to get some steam back to at least fight for a respectable finishing position.

"We are trying to figure out the loopholes and get back in form for the upcoming match. It is very important to win against the US tomorrow to bring back the team's confidence for the future tournaments. We have been evaluating our previous matches and will ensure a much better performance," India captain Ritu Rani said on Friday.

Hockey India (HI) Director High Performance Roelant Oltmans is also optimistic about his team's chances.

"The team has been trying to give their best so far. However, it did not turn out well. But the hope to do better in the upcoming matches is still there and the players in our team are working to end it on a high. We hope to perform like a strong team tomorrow and emerge as winners," said the Dutchman.