PNB knocks out defending Champion Indian Oil

New Delhi, Dec 1 (UNI)Riding on Bikas Tupos second half goal Punjab National Bank (PNB) dethroned defending champion Indian Oil 1-0 to move into the final of the 18th Shastri hockey tournament here today.

The semi final which was engrossing in patches,Indian Oil despite having several internationals in their ranks failed to captalise on the chances that came their way.

After a barren first half,PNB comprising mostly of junior players, struck in the seventh minute of the second session when Bikas Tupo took advantage of the defensive lapse to shot home (1-0).

Rattled by this goal which came against run of the play, Indian Oil launched furious counter moves but they could not get past the crowded PNB defence.

The Bankmen also made few incisive moves in the last stages of the match but could not increase their lead.

UNI