New Delhi: Ashley Jackson converted a penalty corner in the fourth quarter as defending champions Ranchi Rhinos edged past Delhi Waveriders by a solitary goal in an exciting Hero Hockey India League encounter at the Birsa Munda Stadium in Ranchi on Monday.
The two finalists of last year’s inaugural edition produced some excellent hockey and Ranchi coach Gregg Clark will be relieved with the result after losing their opening encounter to Uttar Pradesh Wizards.
Ranchi hogged most of the ball possession during the first half, and played a more attacking brand of hockey.
But the well knit Delhi defence did not allow their rival forwards too much space although the hosts did come close to scoring on a couple of occasions. Delhi were quite a threat on the counter though.
Delhi’s best chance in the opening half fell to Rupinder Pal Singh, but his power packed dragflick saw Ranchi goalkeeper Francisco Cortes come up with a brilliant acrobatic save. The second half was more balanced with fast, end to end action.
Delhi got a golden chance in the final quarter when Kiwi striker Simon Child burst into the penalty area and dribbled past a Ranchi defender to find himself in a one to one position with the Ranchi gaolkeeper .
But Cortes managed to block the shot. The rebound fell to Talwinder Singh whose attempt went wide. The visitors created chances, including a penalty corner, but Ranchi managed to hold on.
kalinga face Punjab
On Tuesday, Kalinga Lancers, the latest entrant in the six-team tournament, will start their campaign with a clash against the Jaypee Punjab Warriors at home. All eyes will be on the Terry Walsh coached Kalinga team during the match in Bhubaneswar and how well he will be successful in grooming his boys.
