FIH Women's Pro League: India go down fighting, lose 2-3 to Australia- Highlights

Quarter 3, 35th minute: Drama unfolds as Australia pile on pressure!

Five minutes into the third quarter, Australia earn another penalty corner as they continue to press India’s defence. The first attempt is well defended by Sunelita Toppo, who rushes out bravely to block the drag flick. However, the umpire signals for a re-award, and Australia gets a second bite. This time, the ball is cleared after a scramble, but the Aussies are asking for a penalty stroke, claiming a foul during the clearance. The referral is under review, and tension is high on the field.

Quarter 3: Second half begins in London

The teams are back on the pitch and the third quarter is underway at the Lee Valley Hockey & Tennis Centre. India will be looking to regroup and find a way back into the game after a dominant first half by Australia. With 30 minutes left on the clock, the next goal could prove crucial.

Halftime stats!

End of Quarter 2: Australia lead 2-0 at half-time!

The hooter goes for half-time, and it’s Australia who head into the break with a deserved 2-0 lead. Courtney Schonell opened the scoring in the 16th minute with a sublime scoop finish, and a second followed in the 23rd minute after a scrappy scramble inside the Indian circle — confirmed after a video referral. Since then, the Aussies have dominated possession and controlled the tempo, leaving India with work to do in the second half.

Quarter 2 – 28th minute: Australia in control!

With just a couple of minutes left in the second half, Australia are firmly dictating the pace of the game. They’re dominating possession and moving the ball with confidence, making India chase shadows. The early goals have clearly given them the upper hand, and they’re controlling both tempo and territory as the clock winds down in the second quarter.

Quarter 2 – 23rd minute: GOAL! Australia double their lead!

Australia strike again to extend their lead to 2-0, but not without some drama. The goal comes after a brief scramble inside the Indian circle, with players from both sides trying to get control. India immediately questioned the legality of the goal, calling for a referral citing a possible foot infringement. After a quick review, the umpire rules in favour of Australia — the goal stands. It’s a scrappy one, but it counts, and India now trail by two.

Quarter 2 – 20th minute: Australia build momentum!

Buoyed by Courtney Schonell’s early goal, Australia are growing in confidence. In the 20th minute, they mount successive attacks, breaking through the Indian midfield and making another sharp circle penetration. The goal has clearly lifted their spirits, and they’re now pressing higher and testing the Indian defence more frequently.

India need to regroup quickly to stop this growing Australian wave.

Quarter 2 – 16th minute: GOAL!

Barely a minute into the second quarter, Australia breaks the deadlock in style. Courtney Schonell produces a moment of magic, latching onto a pass inside the circle and lifting a perfectly timed scoop over the Indian goalkeeper’s head. A stunning finish that leaves the defence rooted and puts Australia 1-0 ahead.

Quarter 2: The Second quarter begins!

We’re back underway at the Lee Valley Hockey & Tennis Centre as Australia take the pushback to start the second quarter. After an energetic first 15 minutes, both teams will look to settle into a rhythm and push for the opening goal.

India will be hoping to build on their attacking momentum from the end of the first quarter.

End of Quarter 1: India starts strong, but it remains goalless!

A high-tempo first quarter comes to an end in London, with both India and Australia showing attacking intent. India looked sharp, especially in the final minutes, coming closest to scoring with a powerful attempt that forced a double save from the Australian goalkeeper. Australia had a penalty corner earlier, but India’s defence held firm.

It’s 0-0 after 15 minutes, with plenty of action still to come.