The India A women's hockey team suffered a 0-1 defeat at the hands of France A side in the first match in Lucknow on Friday.

In a match which could have gone either way, it was France's Ines Lardeur who scored the only goal of the match in the 37th minute through a penalty corner conversion.

Both sides got sufficient opportunities to score but their defences were solid throughout the match, not allowing the forwards to convert their chances on multiple occasions.

FT. @FF_Hockey 'A' emerged victorious in the first match of their Indian campaign. India 'A' would look to bounce back and turn things around in the next match. #IndiaKaGame #INDvFRA pic.twitter.com/4yIic0Ed6A

— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) February 8, 2019

India A women's team, consisting of players from the India Development Core Group and a few youngsters who have recently represented the India senior team, found it difficult to produce a clear goal-scoring opportunity.

On the other hand, France A women's side utilised their opportunity in the 37th minute when they were awarded a penalty corner. Lardeur produced a calm finish to give her team an important lead in the match.

Here's a look at some images from Lucknow from the inaugural match of the four-match series of India 'A' Women against @FF_Hockey 'A' Women on 8th February 2019.

For full album, visit: https://t.co/l7gcU8PunO#IndiaKaGame #INDvFRA pic.twitter.com/5DFzGOSFJ5

— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) February 8, 2019

The home side, led by captain Salima Tete and vice-captain Lalremsiami, tried to make inroads into the French defence but could not find an equaliser as the visitors protected their one-goal lead to register the win.

The second match will be played on February 10 at Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh.