Vitality Hockey Women's World Cup: Italy shocks China, Argentina records a big win
Upsets and tall scoring dominated proceedings on the second day of the Vitality Hockey Women's World Cup in London on Sunday as World number 17 Italy surprised World number 8 China 3-0 and Argentina blasted Spain 6-2. Italy's shock and big win over China came as a surprise as in the last game on the first day, Japan staged a remarkable comeback to lose a gallant battle to World number 5 Australia 2-3 after trailing 0-3 till the 36th minute. Only yesterday, other Asian team India snatched a point from defending Olympic champions England. Goals in the 17th, 32nd and 45th minute gave Italy a well deserved win over China. In fact Italian girls played superb hockey against fast moving Chinese. The Italians held their defence together and managed to make deep inroads into their opponents citadel with concerted and good moves. Valentina Braconi gave Italy lead which was consolidated by Lara Oviedo who converted a penalty corner. Giuliani Ruggieri scored a brilliant field goal to make it 3-0 midway in the second half. Spain raised false hopes by taking an early lead against the South Americans in pool C. Carola Salvatella had smash home a ball that ballooned into the air from a defender following quick exchanges in the Argentine striking circle. Stung by the early reverse, Argentina pumped in six goals through Juliete Junkanas, Maria Ortiz (15th and 28th minute), Roco Sanchez, Detfine Merino besides a penalty stroke conversion by Noel Barrionuevo before Beatriz Perez pulled one back to make it 2-6 in the so far tallest scoring game of the tournament. Last night Australia beat Japan 3-2 after taking a comfortable 3-0 lead.
