Rio Olympics Hockey: Indian Women’s Team lose 0-3 to USA

The Indian women’s hockey team were outclassed 3-0 by group leaders USA in their clash on Friday. The Indians, playing in the Olympics after a gap of 36 years, were simply outplayed by their opponents, who exposed their defensive frailties with a comprehensive win in a lop-sided match.

Kathleen Bam scored two goals for USA, with Melissa Gonzalez slotting in the third. India’s Rani Rampal hit the boards with a reverse hit during the first quarter, but the umpire declared it dangerous play and disallowed the goal. India are yet to register a win at Rio and face Argentina next on Saturday. However, they are not out of the quarterfinal contention yet. They have to beat Argentina next and hope that Australia beat or draw with Japan.
After an inspiring performance against Japan and a reasonable show against Great Britain, the Indian women’s hockey team fell by the wayside against Australia. They suffered a 1-6 defeat to a rampaging Australia and this heavy loss against USA must have stung as well.