Ukraine was the surprise of Day 1, forcing an excellent tie (1-1) against host India, while top ranked South Africa struggled to dispose of Poland (2-1).

The match was slow to pick up momentum. South Africa were inefficient on their first penalty-corner, but it was once again their ace-striker Pietie COETZEE who put them in the lead, when she dove to intercept a defender’s pass and deflect it past the Ukrainian goal-keeper. Lauren PENNY added a goal after a scramble in the Ukrainian circle, with players crashing in the net and on the posts, and things were looking up for South Africa, going into the half-time break with a two-goal lead.

South Africa controlled play in second period, with Ukraine, possibly tired after their intense battle against India the night before, looking short of ideas to threaten the South African defense. They however managed to keep the South African attackers at bay, and there was no score in second period, with South Africa satisfied to cruise to their win of the tournament.

Player of the Match was Pietie COETZEE of South Africa.