Indian eves suffered their heaviest defeat in the history of women's hockey World Cup when they were mauled 1-7 by the defending champions Netherlands in their opening match here.
Penalty corner specialist Maartje Paumen (41st, 49th, 60th minute) scored a hat-trick while Marilyn Agliotti (8th), Ellen Hoog (24th minute), Kim Lammers (28th and 45th) were the other goal-scorers for the Netherlands late on Monday night.
Rani Rampal scored India's lone goal in the 22nd minute from a powerful strike. Incidentally, the 7-1 win is Netherlands biggest World Cup victory since beating Ireland 6-0 in 2002.
India will face mighty Australia in their next Pool match on Wednesday while the Dutch girls will be up against New Zealand. In Monday’s match against the title holders, India were on the receiving end from the start with Dutch mid-fielder Naomi van AS playing superbly.
The Dutch made continuous raids in the Indian citadel and their efforts bore fruit in the eighth minute when Agliotti volleyed home from the close range.
However, the Olympic champions were taken by surprise in the 22nd minute when promising Rani Rampal drew parity for India with a powerful strike from inside the circle.
But India's joy was short-lived as Hoog restored the Dutch lead two minutes later from open play and then ever dangerous Lammers made it 3-1 just before the half time.