London :India's dream run in the Hockey Women's World Cup London 2018 here on Thursday was halted after they lost 1-3 in a dramatic penalty shootout against Ireland at the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre.
For India, Reena Khokhar was the lone goal-scorer while Roisin Upton, Alison Meeke, Chloe Watkins remained calm to beat Savita at the goalpost and clinch a winner for their team after the two teams had ended the regulation time in 0-0 stalemate.
Earlier in the match, a charged-up India began the first quarter with an attacking intent, keeping up the tempo and played with speed. Though at first hooter, the two teams were in a 0-0 stalemate, India had a slight edge over their opponents with better ball possession and three circle entries as against Ireland's two circle penetration but both teams displayed excellent defensive skills to keep each other from taking any shots on goal.
The initial minutes of the second quarter saw India use full-press to keep the pressure up on Irish attack ensuring they made no successful forays into the striking circle. India remained effective yet calm in their attack, rotated the ball patiently to find the right opportunity in the circle but a real chance on goal continued to elude them.(UNI)