Maratha Warriors defuse Chandigarh Dynamos

Chandigarh, Feb 17 (UNI) Despite the absence of injured captain Viren Rasquinha, Maratha Warriors lived up to their name as they recorded a well-merited 2-0 victory over local favourites Chandigarh Dynamos in the Premier Hockey League being played at the Sector 42 floodlit Astroturf Stadium here tonight.

Both goals were scored in the third quarter. Ebullient Shivender Singh and Hardeep Singh scored in the 39th and 41st minutes.

Shivender Singh was adjudged the Lion of the Match and he was presented a cheque for Rs 10,000.

With 14 points from nine encounters, Maratha Warriors were at the third place behind leaders Orissa Steelers (16 points) and Sher-e-Jalandhar (16 points). Surprisingly, it was their second win in the regulation period. They have also scored three triumphs in extra time. The winners in extra time are entited to two points and losers one. Maratha Warriors have suffered two defeats so far.

For Chandigarh it was their third defeat in the regulation period.

They have one win in extra time to their credit and they have lost two matches in extra time. Dynamos have ten points to their credit.

Maratha Warriors played a good coordinated game. Their had better opportunities in the second half while in the closing stages Chandigarh Dynamos displayed sparkle in their attack and could have scored but they frittered away the chances.Maratha Warriors goalkeeper Adrian D'Souza displayed uncanny anticipation to thwart the Dynamos' moves.

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