Out of contention for a semifinal berth, debutants Kalinga lancers produced an impressive show to stun defending champions Ranchi Rhinos 4-1 in their penultimate game of the Hero Hockey India league (HHIl) 2014 in front of home crowd at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on Friday.
Kalinga were in control of the match for major part of 70 minutes to avenge upon their 2-3 loss at the hands of same opponents in their previous meeting this year. The first quarters saw both the teams adopting a cautious approach and were content to play the Kalinga and Ranchi were able to create quite a few impressive attacks but their forays fizzled out once inside the opposition circle as the backline of both the teams stood tall.
Kalinga were under no pressure and it resembled in their performance as they went all out. The hosts stunned Ranchi Rhinos in the 23rd minute when Aron Zelewski scored a field goal. Kalinga doubled their lead five minutes later through Devinder Walmiki (28th minute), who scored from a rebound after Ranchi Rhinos goalie Sushant Tirkey denied Gozalo Peillat from the hosts first penalty corner.
Ranchi were surprised when Peillat converted his side's second penalty corner in the 33rd minute to give Kalinga a comfortable 3-0 lead at the half-way mark. As has been the story in the opening 35 minutes, Kalinga lancers continued to enjoy the lions' share of possession after the breather but failed to extend their lead despite making some Ranchi did manage to pull one back in the 45th minute through Pradhan Somanna's field goal from close range to keep his team's hopes alive.
It was a treat for the home as Peillat scored from a field effort in the final minute of the match to make the scoreline 4-1 and help the lancers register their second win in the tournament.
Kalinga, coached by Indian head coach Terry Walsh, pocketed five points from the match and took their tally to 16 points from nine while Ranchi, coached by South African Gregg Clarke, had to return empty-handed from the game and remained static on the fourth position in the standings with 24 points from eight matches.
Todays Matches
Jaypee Punjab Warriors vs Uttar Pradesh Wizards at 6.00 PM in Mohali.
Dabur Mumbai Magicians vs Delhi Waveriders at 8.00 PM in Mumbai.