Indian women need high scoring victory to stay in contention

Melbourne, Mar 19 (UNI) After a defeat and a draw, all may not be lost yet for the defending champions but India will need a big victory against Nigeria tomorrow to stay in contention in the women hockey competition of the Commonwealth Games here tomorrow.

The Indians wasted chances galore against South Africa and were held to a 2-2 draw. Had they won against the African champions, they would have been through to the semifinals but now they will have to get their act together and play with determination and concentration.

''It is going to be a very crucial outing against Nigeria,'' admitted coach M K Kaushik and added ''I hope the girls understand their responsibility.'' India need to score, they just can't afford to miss chances as they did against South Africa. After Nigeria, their last league opponent is Malaysia.

Title contender Australia has beaten Nigeria 12-0 and thrashed Malaysia 8-0 and they play their last match against South Africa.

South Africa so far has one win and one draw record and they have still to face the hosts, which gives India a very good chance to qualify, provided they win with good margins.

The Indian forwards did not look a cohesive unit yeterday. Mamta Kharab, their star striker, missed easiest possible chances and Jyoti Kulu, Asunta Lakra and Sumrai Tete looked tentative as well.

The defending champions will be without their skipper Sumrai Tete, who has received two yellow cards so far.

The problem with the Indian girls has been that they tend to lose focus under pressure. The habit of arguing with umpires is also not good as it affects the concentration and focus of the team.

The Indian defence has played well so far. Rajwinder and Kanti Ba looked solid while goalkeeper Helen Mary has been outstanding.

Subhadra Pradhan, Saba Anjum and Jasjeet Handa have to improve their showing in the crucial two matches ahead.

The Indian penalty corner conversion needs improvement too. They have missed a number of penalty corners so far but it is a do-or-die situation for the side now. A big win is the need of the hour to stay in the medal hunt, otherwise it would be end of all roads for the defending champions.

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