Competitive Times

India lose 1-2 to Belgium in third build-up game of European Tour

New Delhi: Indian Senior Men Hockey team lost to Belgium 1-2 in a hard fought third build-up game played at Naarden in The Netherlands today. This tour is in preparations for the FIH Men’s World Cup 2014, scheduled to be held at The Hague, Netherlands from 31 May -15 June 2014.

While both the teams went on the attack from the starting of the game, it was Belgium who managed to open the scorecard in the 17th minute when Tom Boon scored through the penalty corner opportunity that the team got. Going into the break Belgium was still leading the game with the 1 goal lead.
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In the second half, India did not allow the Belgians to convert any of the chances that they gave to the opponent team and showcased a great game of hockey. Still not losing their hopes, finally in the 58th minute Rupinder Pal Singh's conversion of the penalty corner helped India level the scores. Putting a great pressure on the opponent’s side, the Belgium team immediately scored in the very next minute, this time it again came from Tom Boon in the 59th minute. Belgium’s second conversion was a field goal which helped them to take soon over the Indians giving it a respectful win.

Sports India lose 1-2 to Belgium in third build-up game of European Tour

New Delhi: Indian Senior Men Hockey team lost to Belgium 1-2 in a hard fought third build-up game played at Naarden in The Netherlands today...

World T20 Cup: India ruined South Africa to meet Sri Lanka in final

Dhaka: And now stage is all set for a challenging final between the two closest neighbors like India and Srilanka in the T20 international to be scheduled on April 6. Dhoni and Company confirms its entry into final by defeating South Africa in the semi final held at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium here.
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In the semi final match, it was Virat Kohli who knocked a unbeaten 72 runs which contributed a major part in 6 wicket winning against South Africa.

South Africa won the toss and decided to bat first and made a total 172 for four. It was skipper Far Du Plesis who contributed satisfactory 58 runs in total score. Beside him, Hashim Amla made 22, Davil Miller remained not out for 22 run with JP Duminy for 45 run.

Ravishandran Ashwin remained once again Indian Hero for bowling and take 3 wicket for 22 runs.

However India chased the total score successfully and defeats the South Africa in the semi final. Certainly the score of Virat Kohli played crucial role from India side in achieving the target. Rohit Sharma contributed 24 runs, Yuvraj Singh 18 with Suresh Raina made 21 runs.

Sports World T20 Cup: India ruined South Africa to meet Sri Lanka in final

Dhaka: And now stage is all set for a challenging final between the two closest neighbors like India and Srilanka in the T20 international t...

Vodafone SuperFan Contest: IPL time once again

Mumbai: Most of us have a cricket crazy friend who has bunked school/college, feigned illnesson the day of a cricket match to watch a cricket match live, and gone to any length to watch his /her favourite cricket hero play on field. If you are a Vodafone customer, IPL 2014 brings you a never before opportunity to help your friend get a dream come true opportunity to be selected as Vodafone SuperFan and win all the privileges that go with it. The 2014 edition of the Vodafone SuperFan Contest incorporates a fresh twist to the campaign, making it even more engaging and rewarding.

The contest for IPL 2014 invites all Vodafone India customers to nominate a friend for the Vodafone SuperFan title and along with it, an opportunity to win a once in a lifetime opportunity of flying to the match location in UAE/India in style, drive to the stadium in a luxury car, get to sit in the hospitality box, take home Vodafone goodies and of course thematch ball autographed by the winning captain on Live TV.
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And it just got bigger….If your friend gets selected as the Vodafone SuperFan, Vodafone offers you a chance to accompany your friend to watch the IPL match live in stadia! So while your friend gets all the privileges that go with the title of Vodafone SuperFan, you as the Nominee also get a Hospitality ticket to watch the match live.

Vodafone is the only leading brand to be associated with IPL since its inception in 2008 and continues to be the ‘Official Partner’ of IPL 2014, thus entering the seventh year of the partnership. A high decibel 360 campaign is being planned on the Vodafone SuperFan Contest along with other innovative consumer engagement activities in the six week long tournament.

Commenting on the initiative, Ronita Mitra, Senior Vice President –Brand Communications and Insights, Vodafone India says, “ Vodafone’s association with IPL has always been highly rewarding for us in terms of enhancing reach and helping us drive a strong brand-consumer connect. Each Year, we have endeavoured to make theVodafone SuperFan Contestbigger and better in terms of the money can’t buy experience to Vodafone customers anywhere in India. This year we have added one more innovative element by inviting nominations from Vodafone post-paid and pre-paid customers to gift a once in a lifetime aspirational experience to acricket crazyfriendand turn their dream into reality.”

Sports Vodafone SuperFan Contest: IPL time once again

Mumbai: Most of us have a cricket crazy friend who has bunked school/college, feigned illnesson the day of a cricket match to watch a cricke...

ICC World Twenty 20 : Indian defeats Australia by 73 runs

Mirpur (Bangladesh): By keeping continue its victory pace, India remained successful in beating Australia by 73 runs in their last Group 2 match in the ICC World Twenty 20 at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium here. Yuvraj Singh and R Ashwin were the heroes for India who contributed their super performance for India’s victory.
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India made a total of 159 with blistering performance of Yuvraj Singh who knock of 60 for only 43 deliveries. Yuvraj hit five boundaries and four sixes in his innings which proved a mega total for Indian score.

However Australia perform very poor in its turn and certainly this time it was R Ashwin who played crucial role in packing Australia. Ashwin clinched 4 wickets in only 3.2 over and it become the best bowling figure by any Indian in such kind of cricket edition.

Sports ICC World Twenty 20 : Indian defeats Australia by 73 runs

Mirpur (Bangladesh): By keeping continue its victory pace, India remained successful in beating Australia by 73 runs in their last Group 2 m...

ICC world cup: Indian beats Bangladesh by Eight wickets

Mirpur (Bangladesh): Keeping continues its victory pace, India beat Bangladesh by eight wickets in a one sided match held here. India defeated Bangladesh by eight wickets after chasing the target of 139 runs in the group 2 match of the ICC world cup.

Earlier, India won the toss and elected to field first. Despite good opening, Bangladesh made only 139.
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Chasing the target, India cruised to 141 by losing just two wickets and nine ball to remain. Virat Kohli remained on crease with not out 57. Rohit Sharma, famous Indian batsman made valuable 56 in his innings.

Sports ICC world cup: Indian beats Bangladesh by Eight wickets

Mirpur (Bangladesh): Keeping continues its victory pace, India beat Bangladesh by eight wickets in a one sided match held here. India defeat...

Hockey India Junior Women Championship: Assam defeats J & K

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New Delhi: Maxima Xalcxo and Phulwari Kandulana scored thrice for Assam which helped their team to register 7-0 win against Jammu and Kashmir in their first league match of the 4th Hockey India Junior Women National Championship 2014 (Division B) held at the Astro-turf of Chamundi Vihar grounds in Mysore today. 
<a href="http://www.competitivetimes.com/2014/02/hhil-2014-jaypee-punjab-warriors-beat.html"> HHIL 2014: Jaypee Punjab Warriors beat Ranchi Rhinos by 4-2</a> 
In a group B match, Maxima Xalxo provided initial lead to her team in the 4th minute by scoring a field goal. Forward Phulwari Kandulana moving the ball from the right end of the court went on to score the second goal in the 21st minute. The defenders of Jammu and Kashmir tried hard to resist the front line players entering into the danger zone. However, in the second half of the game, Assam players successfully invaded the zone and pounded five goals and registered their win in the tournament. 
<a href="http://www.competitivetimes.com/2014/03/4th-hockey-senior-nation-championship.html">4th Hockey Senior Nation Championship: Maharashtra Odisha enter Semi-finals</a> 
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<a href="http://www.competitivetimes.com/2014/02/hhil-2014-dabur-mumbai-magicians-beat.html"> HHIL 2014: Dabur Mumbai Magicians beat Kalinga Lancers by 3-2</a></div>
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In the other match, Gujarat defeated Puducherry 4-0 in Pool D. Gujarat took 1-0 lead in the 23rd minute with field goal scored by their Captain Priyanka Singh. In the second half, Parameshwari Shan triggered the ball to hut in the 43rd minute and increased the lead 2-0. With two goals in bag, Gujarat players started to open up their game which resulted in two more goals.</div>
<a href="http://www.competitivetimes.com/2014/01/jamie-dwyer-c-of-jpw-in-action-against.html">Jamie Dwyer (C) of JPW in action against DWR</a> 
In the last match of the day, Hockey Gangpur Odisha beat Andhra Pradesh 4-0. While the latter gave a tough fight, Hockey Gangpur Odisha proved to be a better team. They managed to pass through the defence in the 17th minute and got the score card going. It was Janhabi Pradhan who converted an excellent field goal. Within 3 minutes, it was Rinki who got a chance to convert a penalty corner opportunity. They went on to add 2 more goals in the second half and hence winning the match 4-0.</div>

Sports Hockey India Junior Women Championship: Assam defeats J & K

New Delhi: Maxima Xalcxo and Phulwari Kandulana scored thrice for Assam which helped their team to register 7-0 win against Jammu and Kash...

4 th Hockey India Championship: Bihar defeats Gujarat by 4-1

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New Delhi: 4 th Hockey India Senior Men National Championship 2014 (Division B) played at Major Dhyan Chand Hockey Stadium in Lucknow today saw the commencement of games of Pool A & B teams. Setting their goals clear from the very beginning teams Bihar, Uttarakhand, Sashastra Seema Bal and Himachal Pradesh made it evident that they are here to stay. 
The first match played between Bihar and Gujarat witnessed Bihar going all out from the very start. Though, Gujarat’s Krushsingh Zala scored the very first goal of the game at the 9th minute, it was Bihar’s Md Reyazuddin, Naveenminz and Mangra Bhengra who in return scored at the 11th, 14th and 21st minute respectively, to take the lead by 3-1 in the first half of the match. Gujarat played a defensive game in the second half of the game but couldn’t stop Bihar’s Naveenminz from scoring another goal at 40th minute and wrapping the game at 4 goals to 1. 
<a href="http://www.competitivetimes.com/2014/02/hhil-upw-rr-team-players-in-action.html"> HHIL: UPW & RR Team Players in action</a> 
<a href="http://www.competitivetimes.com/2014/02/hhil-upw-rr-team-players-in-action_2883.html">HHIL: UPW & RR Team Players in action</a> 
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In another match, Uttarakhand gave an even better fight to Goa by simply not allowing them to score even a single goal. 
In the third match of the day, a tough competition was evident between Sashastra Seema Bal and Rajasthan. Rajasthan took in the lead with 1-0 in first half with the help of Purshotam Bagdi’s penalty corner shot at the 22nd minute of the match. In reply to their opponents, Sashastra Seema Bal made a perfect come back in the second half of the match and took away the match from Rajasthan and won the game by 2-1. H. Surachandra Singh of Sashastra Seema Bal proved to be a ‘one-man-show’ as he scored both the field goals for his team at 41st and 65th minute of the game and drove the team for an exciting victory over Rajasthan. 
The last match of the day, played between Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir saw a neck-to-neck fight, where Himachal Pradesh dominated the first half of the game by 1-0 with the help of Sanwar Ali’s field goal at the 34th minute. Jammu & Kashmir made a good comeback and leveled it at 1-1 with Amrinder Singh’s field goal at the 41st minute. The game turned around back in favour of Himachal Pradesh when Rajesh Kumar converted the penalty corner in a goal when got a chance at the 46th minute. Hence, the penalty corner in favour of Himachal Pradesh helped them claim their win over Jammu & Kashmir.”</div>

Sports 4 th Hockey India Championship: Bihar defeats Gujarat by 4-1

New Delhi: 4 th Hockey India Senior Men National Championship 2014 (Division B) played at Major Dhyan Chand Hockey Stadium in Lucknow today...

4th Hockey Senior Nation Championship: Maharashtra Odisha enter Semi-finals

The 4th Hockey India Senior Men National Championship 2014 (Division B) today, saw teams of Pool C and D giving a tough fight to each other in their last league matches played at the Major Dhyan Chand Hockey Stadium in Lucknow today.

The first match between Bengal and Assam witnessed Bengal leading with 1-0 score till half time. Assam played a better game in the first half but lost control in the second half and gave away 2 more goals and lost the match by 3-0 to Bengal.

Assam gave Bengal a good fight by stopping them with only a 1-0 lead in the first half of the match, but Bengal came back strong in the second half and pocketed 2 more goals within a matter of 4 minutes in the second half of the match. Sunil Shah scored the first goal for Bengal in the 12th minute, followed by Rakesh Burman and Sunil Kujur in the 61st and 64th minute, respectively.
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In another match, Central Reserve Police Force scooped away the game from Vidarbha Hockey Association by 4-0. The match witnessed Central Reserve Police Force at their best, as they took the lead by 3-0 in the first half of the match itself where Rohensingh Thangjam, Prashnt Tirkey and Simon Tirkey scored at 4th, 6th and 16th minute, respectively. The Vidarbha Hockey Association gave a decent fight in the second half of the match but still gave away one more goal to Central Reserve Police Force’s Nemhas Khkha at 46th minute, which cost them the game by 4-0.

In the third match of the day, Maharashtra and Delhi were involved in a closely contested match. The match ended with a draw with both the teams scoring 3 goals each. Navneet Swarnkar scored two goals at 2nd and 30th minute and Captain Vishal Pillay scored at 42nd minute for Maharashtra. Abhishek scored at 38th and 45th minute and Meet Singh scored at the 47th minute of the match for Delhi, making it even with Maharashtra’s score.

Post the match both Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh are placed with 11 points each on the table in Pool D. But on the basis of goal difference Maharashtra was ahead of the Chhattisgarh and therefore Maharashtra has qualified for the semi-finals.

Sports 4th Hockey Senior Nation Championship: Maharashtra Odisha enter Semi-finals

The 4th Hockey India Senior Men National Championship 2014 (Division B) today, saw teams of Pool C and D giving a tough fight to each other...

4 th Hockey India Men Championship: Susheel's Hat-trick guides Bengal to 5-0 win

New Delhi: Susheel Gupta struck a hat-trick as Bengal blanked Mizoram 5-0 in a Pool C league match on day five of the 4th Hockey India Senior Men National Championship played at Major Dhyan Chand Stadium in Lucknow today.

In the second consecutive win for Bengal, Asheesh Sengar and Sunil Shah scored a goal each to complete the tally. Bengal goalkeeper Bappa Saha denied any scoring opportunity to the opponents.
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While during the match where Maharashtra took on Vidarbha Hockey Association, Kunal Jagdale struck three goals for Maharashtra to register a 6-1 win against Vidarbha Hockey Association in their Pool C league match.

Manpreet Singh scored two goals and Vinod Nimbore contributed one goal in Maharashtra’s win while Mohd Ajaz Qureshi scored the only goal for Vidarbha Hockey Association. This is the third win for Maharashtra in four games they have played. In their third league match, Maharashtra draw 4-4 against Chhattisgarh.

Earlier in the day in a Pool D match, Chhattisgarh defeated Delhi 2-0. Chhattisgarh took an early lead in the 9th minute with a field goal scored by Upendra Pillay. In the 62nd minute, Shaheed Shaikh scored a goal to increase the lead to 2-0 for his team.

Sports 4 th Hockey India Men Championship: Susheel's Hat-trick guides Bengal to 5-0 win

New Delhi: Susheel Gupta struck a hat-trick as Bengal blanked Mizoram 5-0 in a Pool C league match on day five of the 4 th Hockey India Sen...

HHIL 2014: Ranchi Rhinos beat UP Wizards in shoot-out

Ranchi Rhinos defeated Uttar Pradesh Wizards on penalty shoot-out to claim the third place in the second edition of Hero Hockey India League (HHIL) at the Astroturf Hockey Stadium in Ranchi today. Seen enjoying the tough tussle between both the teams for a win were eminent dignitaries - Mr. Sudesh Mahato, Former Dy CM, Jharkhand and President, Jharkhand Hockey Federation and Mr. Dilip Tirkey, Member Rajya Sabha.
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Ranchi Rhinos eked out a hard-fought 3-2 win over UP Wizards in the shoot-out after both the teams were locked at 1-1 at regulation time. It was a drab first half as both the teams failed to live up to the expectations.

Ranchi Rhinos had the first real scoring chance when they earned their first penalty corner but it went abegging. UP Wizards were slow to get off the blocks but made use of the first penalty corners, which was beautifully converted by V R Raghunath in the 15th minute. The Rhinos, however, drew level in the second quarter through a fine solo field goal from Manpreet Singh in the 30th minute to go into the breather locked at 1-1.

In the second half both Ranchi Rhinos and UP Wizards made some impressive forays but their efforts failed to materialize into goals. UP Wizards had the best of the opportunity to surge ahead through their second penalty corner of the match in the 68th minute but wasted the chance as both the teams failed to break the deadlock in the regulation 70 minutes.

In the shoot-out, Ranchi Rhinos scored from three one-on-one situations while the Wizards could find the back of the net just twice. Ranchi Rhinos, who were the champions in the inaugural edition of the tournament last year, pocketed home Rs.75,00,000 a purse by finishing at the third spot.

Speaking post the match Roelant Oltmans, Head Coach UP Wizards said “Happy with the team’s performance today. We had a lot of circle penetration and lot of ball positions. But luck was on their side which reflects through the final score.”

Speaking on the team’s performance Gregg Clark, Head Coach, Ranchi Rhinos said “It was a great win today. This season we had many injuries which started from the early stage of the League and it feels nice that we still made it to the semi-finals. The team played well today for the bronze title."

YES Bank Garv Award winner – VR Raghunath

Man of the Match – Birendra Lakra

Hero Goal of the Match Award – Manpreet Singh

Sports HHIL 2014: Ranchi Rhinos beat UP Wizards in shoot-out

Ranchi Rhinos defeated Uttar Pradesh Wizards on penalty shoot-out to claim the third place in the second edition of Hero Hockey India League...

HHIL 2014: Dabur Mumbai Magicians beat Kalinga Lancers by 3-2

Dabur Mumbai Magicians recorded their first win in the second editionof Hero Hockey India League (HHIL), beating debutants Kalinga Lancers 3-2 in an entertaining eague match at the Mahindra Hockey Stadium in Mumbai today.It took Dabur Mumbai Magicians nine games to register their first victory in the league, while for Kalinga Lancers it was a disappointing end to their maiden campaign in the six-team tournament.Dabur Mumbai Magicians opened the scoring 30 seconds from the first quarter through captain Glenn Turner (17th minute), who converted a half chance into goal from a rebound.
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Dabur Mumbai Magicians kept up the pressure on Kalinga Lancers goal and earned three penalty corners in the second quarter, the last of which was converted by Mark Gleghorne in the 33rd minute as the hosts enjoyed 2-0 lead at halftime. Dabur Mumbai Magicians continued on the same breathe after the lemon break and secured another penalty corner but the wasted the opportunity.

Kalinga Lancers reduced the margin in the 43rd minute through Mohd Nizammuddin's fine field goal. Dabur Mumbai Magicians restored their two goal lead in the 57th minute when Ravipal Singh scooped the ball into Kalinga Lancers goal after being fed by Sarvanjit Singh. Kalinga Lancers scored their second goal a minute minute later through Lucas Villa's (58th minute) slap deflection from top of D.Kalinga Lancers, thereafter went all out in search of the equalizer but an alert David Harte in Dabur Mumbai Magicians goal denied them on at least three to four occasions in the final few minutes of the game to keep Dabur Mumbai Magicians slender lead intact and hand the home team their maiden win this year.

It was Kalinga Lancers final game in HHIL 2014 as they rounded off the campaign with 17 points from 10 games, which includes two victories, seven losses and one draw.Dabur Mumbai Magicians' pocketed their first five points of the season and took their tally to 13 points from nine games.

Hero Goal of the match winner – Mohd Nizamuddin

YES Bank Garv Award winner – Glenn Turner

Man of the Match – Glenn Turner

Sports HHIL 2014: Dabur Mumbai Magicians beat Kalinga Lancers by 3-2

Dabur Mumbai Magicians recorded their first win in the second editionof Hero Hockey India League (HHIL), beating debutants Kalinga Lancers ...

HHIL 2014: Jaypee Punjab Warriors beat Ranchi Rhinos by 4-2

Mohali: Jaypee Punjab Warriors defeated defending champions Racnhi Rhinos 4-2 in their penultimate league match to consolidate their second position in the Hero Hockey India League (HHIL) 2014 at the newly-built hockey stadium in Mohali today. The win gave Jaypee Punjab Warriors five points and took their tally to 35 points from nine game.

Ranchi Rhinos suffered their fourth defeat in the tournament and continued to occupy the fourth position in the standings with 24 points from nine matches.S V Sunil opened the scoring for Jaypee Punjab Warriors in the 17th minute of the match with a field strike that beat Rhinos goalie Sushant Tirkey all ens up.
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The hosts continued to control the proceedings in the second quarter but the Ranchi Rhinos restored parity through Amit Rohidas who converted his side's first penalty corner in the 23nd minute.The equalizer seemed to have pumped Ranchi Rhinos as they surged ahead in the 29th minute through Justin Reid Ross, who scored from the visitor's second set piece.The Jaypee Punjab Warriors level the scores just a minute from half time when they were awarded a penalty stroke for Pradhan Somanna's obstruction inside the circle, which was perfectly executed by captain Mark Knowles (34th minute).

The hosts earned their first penalty corner in the 49th minute but ace dragflicker Sandeep Singh's flick was kept away by an alert Tirkey in Ranchi Rhinos goal.Punjab Warriors secured two penalty corners in succession at the start of the fourth and final quarter but Jake Whetton's first attempt was saved by Tirkey before Sandeep (55th minute) steeped forward to convert the next set piece to take a 2-1 lead.

Six minutes later, Australian Kieran Govers (61st minute) made the scoreline 4-2 in favour of Jaypee Punjab Warriorr by converting another penalty corner to seal the match in his side's favour. Jaypee Punjab Warriors and the Rhinos will face each other once again in Ranchi Rhinos on February 19 to round off their league campaign.

Speaking on today performance by the team Head Coach Barry Dancer, Jaypee Punjab Warriors said “A good quality match played by both the teams today. Ranchi Rhinos played extremely well in the last quarter of the match. Happy with the performance today but still feel there is scope for improvement. We got a few chances which could not be converted today. In our last match before the semi-finals we face Ranchi Rhinos again on their home turf and I hope we keep the winning momentum going”.

YES Bank Garv Award winner – SV Sunil

Man of the Match – Sandeep Singh

Hero Goal of the Match Award –SV Sunil

Sports HHIL 2014: Jaypee Punjab Warriors beat Ranchi Rhinos by 4-2

Mohali: Jaypee Punjab Warriors defeated defending champions Racnhi Rhinos 4-2 in their penultimate league match to consolidate their second ...

HHIL: Delhi Waveriders beat Dabur Mumbai Magicians 5-3

Mumbai: In a interesting and struggling match, the table toppers Delhi Waveriders rounded off their league campaign at the second edition of Hero Hockey India League (HHIL) in style, beating Dabur Mumbai Magicians 5-3 in a high-scoring match at the Mahindra Hockey Stadium in Mumbai today.Delhi Waveriders started the match as favourites and took the lead in the third minute through Yuvraj Walmiki, who got a deflection from Akashdeep Singh's rebound shot.Dabur Mumbai Magicians, however, drew level seven minutes later when Glenn Turner (10th minute) scored a field goal before Delhi Waveriders restored their lead in the next minute through veteran Rajpal Singh's 11th minute) field strike.
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It was an entertaining first quarter as both the teams matched each other stick by stick but it was the visitors who enjoyed a slender one goal lead at the first break.After intense battle for most part of the second quarter, Dabur Mumbai Magicians drew their second blood through Timothy Devin's (35th minute) field goal just 20 second from half time as both the teams went into the breather locked at 2-2. But young Akashdeep (36th minute) restored Delhi Waveriders lead with a beautiful field goal just after the lemon break.Rajpal (54th minute) was once again at the thick of things as he scored another field goal to extend Delhi Waveriders lead.Delhi Waveriders made the scoreline 5-2 in their favour when Rupinderpal Singh converted his side's first penalty corner in the 58th minute.Dabur Mumbai Magicians earned as many as five penalty corners in the match but converted just one to sum their day in office.

Turner (68th) made use of the fifth and final penalty corner two minutes from the final hooter to reduce the margin for the hosts.The win gave Delhi Waveriders five points that means they drew curtains to their league campaign with 39 points from 10 games, which includes sevn wins, two losses and one draw.Dabur Mumbai Magicians, on the other hand, suffered their seventh defeat in the tournament out of eight games and are lying at the end of the points table with nine points from eight matches. Hero Goal of the match winner was Rajpal Singh.

Sports HHIL: Delhi Waveriders beat Dabur Mumbai Magicians 5-3

Mumbai: In a interesting and struggling match, the table toppers Delhi Waveriders rounded off their league campaign at the second edition of...

HHIL 2014: Delhi Waveriders beats Kalinga Lancers by 5-0

New Delhi: Hosts Delhi Waveriders thrashed debutants Kalinga Lancers 5-0 to register their second win in the second edition of the Hero Hockey India League League (HHIL) at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi today.

Rupinderpal Singh (13th, 29th minutes) converted two pnealty corners for the hosts, while the other goals came from the sticks of Matt Gohdes (21st), Danish Mujtaba (48th) and Lloyd Norris Jones (53rd).

The Waveriders controlled the match from start to finish and created numerous scoring chances.

The Lancers yet again were slow to get off the blocks and struggled to get their footing in the match. The Waveriders were the dominant side on display as they controlled the proceedings throughout the entire 70 minutes.
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The Waveriders started on an attacking note against the less fancied Kalinga Lancers and surged ahead in the 13th minute when Rupinderpal scored from a penalty corner to the right of the visitor's goalie Harjot Singh. Eight minutes later, the Waveriders doubled their lead througth Ghodes (21st), who beat two Kalinga defenders to flick the ball inside the net. Minutes later, the visitors earned two penalty corners in succession but wasted both.

The Waveriders seized on the opportunities that came their way and extended their lead soon when Rupinder (29th) converted another penalty corner to go into the midway break with a comfortable 3-0 lead.

The Wizards continued to dominate the contest after the change ef ends and scored two more field goals in a span of six minutes through Mujtaba and Jones to pocket the contest in their favour.

The Waveriders will next play Jaypee Punjab Warriors at the same venue tomorrow, while Kalinga Lancers will be up against Dabur Mumbai Magicians in their home ground at Bhubaneswar on Sunday.

Hero Goal of the match winner Llyod Norris Jones, Delhi Waveriders

YES Bank Garv Award winner – Rupinder Pal Singh, Delhi Waveriders

Man of the Match – Gurbaj Singh, Delhi Waveriders

Speaking on the performance by the team Cedric D’Souza said “every match has to be taken on its full strength. All teams are tough in their own way and they have their own skills in place”.

Speaking on the teams performance, Kalinga Lacers Coach, Terry Walsh said “the scorelines were disappointing today but there was lot of learning’s today. There were critical moments where we did not perform well and lacked in execution which costed us the game today. We are trying various tactics and strategies and hoping to make a comeback in the next game against Dabur Mumbai Magicians. We will get better as we grow.

Sports HHIL 2014: Delhi Waveriders beats Kalinga Lancers by 5-0

New Delhi: Hosts Delhi Waveriders thrashed debutants Kalinga Lancers 5-0 to register their second win in the second edition of the Hero Hock...

HHIL 2014: Jaypee Punjab Warriors beat Kalinga Lancers by 7-3, highest score ever

Bhubaneswar: Jaypee Punjab Warriors beat debutants Kalinga Lancers 7-3 to register their second consecutive win in the tournament and zoom to the top of the points table in the second edition of Hero Hockey India League at the newly-laid Astroturf of the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar today. This is the first time any team has attained a score of 7-3 in the Hero Hockey India League. In the inaugural season highest score was 6-4, where Delhi Waveriders have beaten Dabur Mumbai Magicians.

The comprehensive victory gave Jaypee Punjab Warriors a bonus point and propelled the side to the top of the standings with 11 points from three games. Kalinga Lancers, however, returned empty-handed as they lost the match by a margin of more than two goals.
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Kalinga Lancers, jointly owned by Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (IDCO) and Mahanadi Coalfield Limited (MCL) and coached by Indian men’s team chief coach Terry Walsh, witnessed a nightmarish debut at the franchise-based league as the Wizards were in complete control of the game throughout the entire 70 minutes.

The newcomers in HHIL were on the back foot from the start as the Wizards rattled the Kalinga lancers defense with constant raids. Kalinga Lancers looked rusty and struggled to control the rampaging visitors in the one-sided encounter.

It did not take long for Jaypee Punjab Warriors to go ahead through Dharamvir Singh (6th minute) who scored from a weak rebound off Kalinga Lancers goalie Tristan Clemons.

Jaypee Punjab Warriors upped their ante in the second quarter and pumped in four more goals in quick succession to increase their lead.

First Lucas Rey scored from a rebound after the initial try was saved by Kalinga Lancers goalkeeper Clemons from Jaypee Wizards first penalty corner. Star drag-flicker Sandeep Singh then converted another penalty corner to right of an out-stretched Tristan and then young Affan Yousuf and Australian Simon Orchard scored through field efforts to take a commanding 5-0 lead at halftime.

Kalinga Lancers managed to pull one back three minutes into the third quarter when Gonzalo Peillat (38th) made use of their first penalty corner. But minutes later, Sandeep (40th) restored Wizards lead scoring his second goal of the day from another set piece.

Kalinga can take heart from the fact that they were bang on target with their penalty corner conversions as Peillat (43rd) scored from their second set piece to register his name in the scoresheet for the second time in the match.

Jaypee Punjab Warriors scored another from a penalty corner, this time through captain Jamie Dwyer’s rebound before Mandeep Antil perfectly deflected in Amir Khan’s pass to reduce the margin for Kalinga Lancers. Hero Goal of the Match award was bagged by Jamie Dwyer while Yes Bank Garv award was given to Sandeep Singh. Dharamvir Singh was declared the Man of the Match.

Sports HHIL 2014: Jaypee Punjab Warriors beat Kalinga Lancers by 7-3, highest score ever

Bhubaneswar: Jaypee Punjab Warriors beat debutants Kalinga Lancers 7-3 to register their second consecutive win in the tournament and zoom t...

HHIL 2014: Ashley Jackson of RR celebrates after hitting a goal against DWR

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 Defending champions Ranchi Rhinos rode on Ashley Jackson’s late penalty corner conversion to register their first win in the Hero Hockey India League (HHIL) 2014 by beating Delhi Waveriders with a solitary goal in a keenly-contested league match at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium in Ranchi today. 
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Sports HHIL 2014: Ashley Jackson of RR celebrates after hitting a goal against DWR

Defending champions Ranchi Rhinos rode on Ashley Jackson’s late penalty corner conversion to register their first win in the Hero...

HHIL 2014: Ranchi Rhinos defeated Delhi Waveriders

Ranchi: Defending champions Ranchi Rhinos rode on Ashley Jackson’s late penalty corner conversion to register their first win in the Hero Hockey India League (HHIL) 2014 by beating Delhi Waveriders with a solitary goal in a keenly-contested league match at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium in Ranchi today.

It took the Rhinos 63 minutes to break the deadlock through Jackson, who converted a set-piece to open the hosts’ account in the second edition of HHIL.

With two last year’s finalists in action in reigning champions Ranchi Rhinos and runners-up Delhi Waveriders, it was expected to be a close contest and it turned out to be one as both the teams matched each other stick by stick.

Still reeling from their 2-3 defeat at the hands of Uttar Pradesh Wizards in their tournament opener, the Ranchi Rhinos however started on a positive note and put Delhi Waveriders defense under pressure early on.
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The hosts created a few bright openings in the beginning but their forward line led by star striker Mandeep Singh wasted the opportunities as the Delhi outfit displayed some stout defending.

As the match progressed the Delhi Waveriders slowly and steadily got their footing in the match and managed to earn their first real chance in the 17th minute through a penalty corner which was brilliantly saved by Ranchi Rhinos goalkeeper Francisco Cortes to deny Rupinderpal Singh.

After some midfield slugfest, Amon Tirkey missed a golden opportunity for the Ranchi Rhinos when his reverse shot from inside the circle hit the side-board.

Few minutes later Akashdeep Singh and Talwinder Singh combined well to earn Delhi Waveriders a penalty corner but the visitors wasted the chance because of a bad push.

Ranchi Rhinos almost had thrice shots at the Delhi goal just at the stroke of halftime but all the three attempts were kept away by Delhi Waveriders goalkeeper Hamish McGreger as both the teams failed to break the ice at halftime.

The Rhinos continued to press for goals after the crossover and in the process earned another penalty corner but Jackson missed the target.

Ranchi custodian Cortes had a brilliant outing today as he produced numerous saves to keep his side in the hunt.

In the 62nd minute Delhi Waveriders threatened the Ranchi Rhinos defense with three attempts in succession but Cortes came up with a triple save to keep a clean slate. Cortes first saved twin tries from New Zealand striker Simon Child and then kept at bay Akshdeep’s hit from just inside the circle.

A minute later Jackson finally broke the ice when he made use of a penalty corner to send the home crowd into ruptures.

The Delhi Waveriders got a golden chance to equalize in the next minute but Andres Mir Bel’s attempt from a penalty corner went wide.

The win gave Ranchi Rhinos five points while Delhi Waveriders secured one point as per the rules of the tournament.

Ranchi Rhinos will next travel to Lucknow to face Uttar Pradesh Wizards on Saturday, while Delhi Waveriders will host league debutants Kalinga Lancers on Thursday.

Sports HHIL 2014: Ranchi Rhinos defeated Delhi Waveriders

Ranchi: Defending champions Ranchi Rhinos rode on Ashley Jackson’s late penalty corner conversion to register their first win in the Hero Ho...

HHIL: Sandeep Singh of JPW in action against DMM

Sports HHIL: Sandeep Singh of JPW in action against DMM

HHIL 2014: Jaypee Punjab Warriors beat Dabur Mumbai Magicians Bharat Chikkara of DMM in action against JPW

HHIL 2014: Jaypee Punjab Warriors beat Dabur Mumbai Magicians by 5-3

Mohali: Putting behind their last night’s defeat, Jaypee Punjab Warriors dished out a commendable performance to beat Dabur Mumbai Magicians 5-3 to register their first win in the second edition of the Hero Hockey India League (HHIL) in Mohali today. Jaypee Punjab Warriors made a promising start to the encounter and created trouble for the Dabur Mumbai Magicians defense from the onset.

Agustin Mazzilli put Jaypee Punjab Warriors ahead in the seventh minute by scoring from a rebound after young Affan Yousuf’s initial shot was saved by Mumbai goalkeeper PR Sreejesh. Jaypee Punjab Warriors got a golden opportunity to extend their lead minutes later when they earned a penalty corner but they failed to utilize the chance. Undeterred by the goal, the Dabur Mumbai Magicians outfit came back strongly and scored two goals within a span of three minutes to take the lead. First Mark Gleghorne (15th minute) converted a penalty corner and then Ravipal Singh (17th minute) scored a field goal to give Dabur Mumbai Magicians a 2-1 lead. 
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The Punjab side pressed hard for the equalizer in the second quarter and finally managed to get it in the 30th minute when Malak Singh scored with a field effort. But nine minutes later, Dabur Mumbai Magicians restored their lead through Vinaya Vakkaliga’s field strike. But it was not to be Dabur Mumbai Magicians’ day as the Jaypee Punjab Warriors went all out thereafter and precisely converted three penalty corners to register their first win in the tournament. Punjab’s star drag-flicker Sandeep Singh first converted a penalty corner in the 40th minute and then Australian Christopher Ciriello (47th) and Dharamvir Singh (67th) made use of two more set pieces to open Jaypee Punjab Warriors’ account in the points tally.

Jaypee Punjab Warriors, who had lost 1-3 to Delhi Waveriders in the tournament opener yesterday, secure five points from the win, while Dabur Mumbai Magicians garnered one point from the encounter. Jaypee Punjab Warriors will next play debutants Kalinga Lancers in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday, while Dabur Mumbai Magicians will be up against Uttar Pradesh Wizards in Mumbai on Wednesday.

Sports HHIL 2014: Jaypee Punjab Warriors beat Dabur Mumbai Magicians by 5-3

Mohali: Putting behind their last night’s defeat, Jaypee Punjab Warriors dished out a commendable performance to beat Dabur Mumbai Magicians...

Hockey India unveils the trophy and mascot for Hero Hockey India League 2014

New Delhi: Hockey India today unveiled the charismatic trophy & Mascot of Hero Hockey India League Season 2 in New Delhi. The glittering trophy to be awarded to the winner of Hero Hockey India League and median brand mascot were unveiled in the presence of Dr. Narinder Batra, Chairman, Hero Hockey India League.

The stunning masterpiece of trophy seems like a crown embedded with Swarovski at top and bottom with two beautiful golden Hockey Sticks on both the sides. Taking this excitement to higher level, new mascot named as ‘Gaurav’ meaning Pride, has been introduced to add new & refreshing chapter to the trajectory of Hockey India League. This eye-catching mascot is designed to arouse the interest for Hockey and to connect all hockey fans with the game in a completely redefined manner.

Speaking on the occasion Dr. Narinder Batra, Chairman, Hero Hockey India League said, "Presenting the trophy and mascot brings immense pleasure and it reflects the success of Hockey India’s endeavour to take the Hockey on next level. The mascot is indeed a lovable character who the Hockey fans would love to associate with.”
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1r6kdA-c6sBEsbIWUFXW57bC11B0Fvij6-G6k0foAb-i_cRhZMzzBEpWFsJMnkSpsy3loP4XUqRozkmBNfM0XPyupbKo1Bj3KWxTJbPgBOo_IlijnWRCA0oNWYU71Lt_fn9jKbNVBK1E/s1600/IMG_9816.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1r6kdA-c6sBEsbIWUFXW57bC11B0Fvij6-G6k0foAb-i_cRhZMzzBEpWFsJMnkSpsy3loP4XUqRozkmBNfM0XPyupbKo1Bj3KWxTJbPgBOo_IlijnWRCA0oNWYU71Lt_fn9jKbNVBK1E/s320/IMG_9816.JPG" /></a>
He further added “The participation of Hockey players from across the world in the second edition of Hero Hockey India League will not only present the great sporty show to Indian Hockey lover but it will also highlight of contrast of Indian Hockey to international fans”.

After receiving the overwhelming response in the inaugural season, the second edition of Hero Hockey India League is about to kick off from January 25th to February 23rd 2014. The league will be played across Delhi, Mumbai, Mohali, Bhubaneswar, Ranchi and Lucknow. The player from 11 different countries comprising renowned Olympians will be participating in the tournament to showcase their talent and skills. The Hero Hockey India League will comprise of 30 league matches followed by 2 semi finals, 3rd/4th place playoff and a grand finale. Star Sports, Broadcast Partner of the Hero HIL will telecast all the matches live.

Sports Hockey India unveils the trophy and mascot for Hero Hockey India League 2014

New Delhi: Hockey India today unveiled the charismatic trophy & Mascot of Hero Hockey India League Season 2 in New Delhi. The glittering...