Valencia, Oct 26 (IANS): Indias junior women team edged past hosts Spain 3-2 in the five-nation invitational hockey tournament here on Wednesday.

In a highly charged encounter, it was the hosts who had the early breakthrough as Clara Ycart provided the vital lead in the 15th minute. 

India equalised via Jyoti's goal in the 28th minute to take the game into half time with the scoreboard reading 1-1.

In the second half, India came out charging and Ritu gave India the lead via a penalty corner in the 42nd minute. 

Two minutes later though, Spain were awarded a stroke and Ycart made no mistake from the spot to draw them level.

The two teams tussled away in the midfield, and despite the chances and circle penetrations no one could breach the goal over the next twenty minutes. 

In the final 10 minutes, India improved their game as they were rewarded in the 62nd minute.

Sangita Kumari scored to give them the lead. The goal would prove to be the winner, as India held on for three points.

They will now take on Germany on Thursday.