1st W Thoibi Devi hockey tournament ARC to meet Hockey Union in final
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, February 07 2015 :
ARC, Shillong will meet Hockey Union, Lairikyengbam in the final of the 1st Wahengbam Thoibi Devi Challenge Hockey Trophy 2015 organised by Manipur Hockey at Khuman Lampak hockey stadium.
In today's first semi final, ARC, Shillong edged out SSB, Lucknow by a margin of 3 goals to two.
The match began with L Joychandra (Jersey No 18) scoring the opening goal in the 12th minute.
SSB bounced back after L Heramni struck home in the 45th minute.
On the other side, with an intention to win, the ARC players continued with their attacking style till Lalhruitlunga (Jersey No 19) succesfully converted a penalty corner in the 54th minute.
Minutes later, a stunning strike from L Leejohn (Jersey No 12) in the 56th minute helped ARC to take a comfortable 3-1 lead against SSB.
With two goals down, the SSB players did not lose hope and fought back hard to come back into the match.
The efforts for SSB finally paid off after Arif Ansari (Jersey No 9) netted in the second goal for his side in the 58th minute.
SSB put more men on the attacking side and created many chances.
However, the ARC defenders who stood firm thwarted all the attempts made by SSB and sealed the match at 3-2 .
ARC's L Leejohn, M Arunkumar and M Shashikanta and SSB Kh's Kanta were booked for unsporting behaviours during the match.
In today's sesond semi final, Hockey Union, Lairikyengbam claimed an easy 4-1 win against KHSC, Khongman.
Stunning strikes from Th Kingson (Jersey No 10) and Sh Amujao (Jersey No 13) and a brace from P Prakash (Jersey No 14) in the 22nd and 62nd minute gave Hockey Union 4 goals.
The solitary goal for KHSC was scored by Th Kirankumar (Jersey No 19) in the 43rd minute.
KHSC's M Robert was booked a green card for unsporting behaviour.
Tomorrow, in the final match, ARC, Shillong will clash with Hockey Union, Lairikyengbam Leikai at 1 pm at Khuman Lampak
Hockey Stadium, Imphal.