Mokqi, China, September 12 (H.S.): Defending champions India stormed into the final of the AHF Junior Women’s Asia Cup after defeating South Korea 5-1 in the first semi-final on Saturday, powered by a brilliant hat-trick from drag-flick specialist Supriya. India dominated proceedings throughout the contest and took another significant step towards retaining their title.

India opened the scoring in the 13th minute when Madhu Sidar found the back of the net. Four minutes later, in the 17th minute, Supriya doubled India’s advantage with a precise drag-flick from a penalty corner.

India continued to apply relentless pressure, and Sukhveer Kaur produced a superb finish in the 21st minute to extend the lead to 3-0. The Indian defence remained resolute for the remainder of the first half, thwarting South Korea’s attempts and ensuring that India went into the interval with a commanding three-goal advantage.

India resumed the third quarter with renewed intensity. In the 33rd minute, Supriya converted another penalty corner with a superb drag-flick to score her second goal of the match and put India 4-0 ahead.

South Korea attempted to fight back in the 41st minute when Yuri Jeong converted a set-piece opportunity to reduce the deficit to 4-1 and briefly raise hopes of a comeback. However, the Indian players tightened their defensive structure thereafter and denied the Korean side any clear opportunities.

India maintained their attacking approach in the final quarter and earned another penalty corner in the 56th minute. Supriya made no mistake, converting the opportunity to complete her hat-trick and seal a convincing 5-1 victory for the defending champions.

India will now face the winner of the second semi-final between China and Japan in the title clash. The Indian team will enter the final aiming to win the Junior Women’s Asia Cup for the second consecutive time.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar