Four weeks ago, India team coach CR Kumar had talked about improvement in all departments of the game, including goal-scoring skills. On Saturday, in their opening encounter against Ukraine, India missed chances galore, finally ending with a 1-1 draw.
Apart from splitting points, it also meant the task of securing the London ticket became that much more difficult.
India got plenty of opportunities in the first 20 minutes but unimaginative play was the bane. Even a seasoned player like Jasjeet Kaur failed to push the ball in the right direction.
Ukraine anticipated well and surprised the Indian 'keeper, Yogita Bali, in the 28th minute, with Maryna Vynohradoya converting a PC. In the second half, India came back through Soundarya Yendala, who made it 1-1.