Azerbaijan vs. China Four Test Series: scoreless draw in the third test – Hockey Update
The third match of the test series between Azerbaijan and China’s Women’s hockey team concluded with a 0-0 draw at Baku, Azerbaijan on May 6.
According to the Field Hockey Federation of Azerbaijan, the match concluded with no score from either side. The previous two matches had finalised in favour of China with 4-2 win in the first match and 2-1 score win in the second match.
In the third encounter, the host team managed a draw which highlights the fact that they succeeded in keeping hold on the Chinese counterpart from scoring.
During the first friendly match played on May 3, Azerbaijan was found frustrated by their opponents during the game. The Asian side was much more quick and tactical in their game as compared to the host women, making it hard for the team trailing to match-up,
closing the game with a win at 4-2.
In the first half, Azerbaijan failed to score and at the half the score was 0-2. In the second half, they opened the score on the board but still failed to defend their circle, closing the first match at a loss 2-4.
However, in the second friendly that was played on May 4, Azerbaijan had shown considerable improvement with almost a head-to-head fight, which closed at a miss by 1-2.
Comparative to the above two results, the third friendly was a surprising finish when both the teams showed a head-to-head fight that reflected the fact that both were equally competitive, closing the match scoreless at 0-0.
The final match between the two national teams will be held on May 7. This match will be played at the same venue in Baku.
On the whole, China has a series lead with 2-0 whereas the final match will help determine that whether the Asians take a solitary series win or not.
Meanwhile, the Azerbaijan tour of the China’s Women’s hockey team also encompasses a week of training sessions here during the four friendly games and will later leave for England on May 8.
The Chinese Women’s hockey team has already sealed their place into the 2012 London Olympic Games. On the other hand, Azerbaijan is making preparations for their participation in the European Championship that will be held from August 24-30, in Germany this
year. There the team will be attempting to secure two Olympic licenses for themselves.
The team seems all set to play their role in the European tour, however much emphasis is being laid on stamina building and game strategies for the team.
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