The Indian women's hockey team remained unbeaten on their South Africa tour thus far as they registered a 2-2 draw against the hosts in its fourth match against them, here on Sunday.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
This was India's last match against the South African side before they take on World No.1 Netherlands on January 23.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
It was Vaishnavi Vithal Palkhe, playing her debut tour for the senior side, who starred for the team, scoring two crucial goals that helped them hold the home team to a draw.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
South Africa made a strong start on Sunday, after a series of losses against India. The home team had lost 1-5, 0-7 and 0-4 to India thus far. Determined to end the matches against India on a good note, South Africa were the first to make a breakthrough when they capitalised on an Indian infringement.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The penalty stroke awarded to them was utilised well with Quanita Bobbs beating young goalie Bichu Devi Kharibam to convert the goal in the 8th minute.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
India were able to equalise only in the 29th minute when a good PC variation helped them score a goal. It was Vaishnavi who did well to remain calm and pump the ball into the post.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
South Africa managed to snatch the lead again when Tarryn Lombard struck a field goal in the 35th minute. The next few minutes remained tense with both teams playing on par with each other.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Vaishnavi finally brought some respite when she converted from a PC in the 51st minute. India did well to tighten their defence in the dying minutes of the match to ensure they walked away with a draw.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
South Africa managed to snatch the lead again when Tarryn Lombard struck a field goal in the 35th minute. The next few minutes remained tense with both teams playing on par with each other.<\/p>\r\n\r\n