Indian eves go down to South Africa, finish last in Rotterdam

Rotterdam, Jun 29 (UNI) The Indian women's hockey team were thrashed 1-5 by South Africa in the play-off match for the third place as they finished last at the four-nation tournament here.

South Africa were 2-0 up at half time yesterday with goals from Marsh Marescia (11th min) and Kathleen Taylor (12).

They added another three after the breather (Vida Ryan 50, 69 and Jenny Wilson 68) to emerge confortable winners.

Surinder Kaur grabbed the consolation goal for India in the 16th minute.

The Indians were severely handicapped as they were missing the services of their chief coach M K Kaushik as his employer Harayana Sports Department has not cleared his leave.

To add to their woes, the Indian Women's Hockey Federation also did not send a manager with the team for their 22-day Europe sojourn which is seen as preparation tour for the 2010 Commonwealth Games.

Hosts Holland emerged champions after whipping Great Britain 5-0.

The Indian eves will now travel to Bremen, Germany where they will feature in another four-nation tournament involving Korea, South Africa and the hosts to be held from July 3 to 6.

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