Women must beat Italy

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Having been brought back to earth by the marauding South African women, the Indian team have their task cut out in the qualifiers, when they face Italy in their final league encounter, at the National Stadium here on Friday.

India need to win to have a shot at the London berth. On the other hand, a draw will ensure Italy’s passage into the final. The Proteas have already booked their seat in the summit clash with 10 points. The hosts lie third in the rankings table, a point behind Italy, at seven.

For India to qualify, the strike force will have to put their hand up. They have been a letdown in the tournament so far. The likes of Jasjeet Kaur and Vandana Katariya have failed to capitalise on numerous chances.

While the co-ordination and passing has been sharp, the finishing has left a lot to be desired. The lone exception up front has been Ritu Rani, who has stood out with stick work and awareness.

The absence of Anuradha Devi, operating from the left flank, is hurting India’s chances. She suffered a muscle tear in the game against Canada and is ruled out for Friday’s encounter as well.

An off-colour Indian defence conceded soft goals against the Proteas. They will need to tighten up their game against Italy, who have the highest goal-scorer of the tournament, Allesia Padalino, in their ranks.

Giuliana Ruggieri is another Italian forward, veteran India defender Subhadhra Pradhan will have to keep her eyes on.

“It is a do-or-die match for us and we will go all out. We will try to win it at any cost and that too by a big margin,” India coach Kumar said. Italy are dangerous when it comes to the penalty corners and the Indian goalkeeper will have to be on the top of her game to thwart the visitors.

In the two inconsequential matches, South Africa play Canada, while Ukraine take on Poland.