Orissa men revive semifinal hope

Post News Network

 Cuttack, Feb3: Orissa revived their chances to survive in the competition by beating Jharkhand 3-1 in their second Pool-A match of the men’s hockey event in the National Games at Kolam of Kerala, Wednesday.

SS Bundela converted a penalty corner in the 20^th minute to draw first blood for Orissa. Wilson Lakra restored parity for Jharkhand in the 32^nd minute through a beautiful field goal and the teams went for the lemon break with the scoreline reading 1-1.

After the change of ends, Orissa players adopted an aggressive strategy and added two more goals. Dipansu Bhargab doubled the lead in the 66^th minute while Rajan Kandulina found the back of the net just after three minutes to ensure victory.

With the maiden victory Orissa are now hopeful for a semifinal place in the meet. In their last league match Orissa will meet Kerala February 7. Orissa lost their first match to Uttar Pradesh 2-4.