Moqi , Drag-flick specialist Supriya put up a fine show as the Indian women’s team entered the final of the AHF Junior Asia Cup with a convincing 5-1 victory over South Korea in the first semifinal here on Saturday.
Another penalty corner presented Supriya with the opportunity to showcase her speciality, and the drag-flick specialist made no mistake, finding the target for her second goal of the match and putting India 4-0 ahead. Yuri Jeong converted from a set-piece to reduce the deficit to 4-1 and briefly raise hopes of a comeback. India will now face the winner of the second semifinal between hosts China and Japan in the summit clash. The goal gave India added momentum and they began dictating proceedings in the second quarter, making regular incursions into the Korean circle. Their pressure earned a penalty corner in the 17th minute, and Supriya stepped up to unleash a precise drag-flick past the Korean defence and double India’s advantage. South Korea showed glimpses of a response before half-time, creating a few opportunities, but India’s defence remained composed to preserve their three-goal cushion at the interval. India came out strongly after the break and extended their lead in the 33rd minute. With the deficit growing, South Korea continued to chase the game and eventually found a breakthrough in the 41st minute. India remained disciplined in the final quarter, tightening their defensive structure and denying the Koreans any clear route back into the contest.
