Producing another impressive performance, Bombay Republicans did well to snatch a 3-3 draw with Central Secretariat in a fast-paced and absorbing Super Division match of the MHAL (Mumbai Hockey Association Limited) League – 2016, and played at the MHAL Mahindra Stadium, Churchgate, on Saturday evening.
Central Secretariat’s penalty corner specialist Thimanna P.L. (left), who scored a hat-trick, receives the ‘Man of the match’ award from Ram Singh Rathor, MHAL Hon. Secretary.
Bombay Republicans, a private club founded in the late 60s and which has groomed several Mumbai stalwarts, who have gone on to represent the country with distinction, played a good attractive brand of attacking hockey. With a little bit of experience the enterprising and young outfit could have trooped out worthy winners against the seasoned Secretariat team who scored a late equalizer to earn a draw.
Central Secretariat tried to assert their dominance but the youngsters rose to the challenge and matched their rivals in every department. Republicans also created quite a number of chances but lacked the finishing touch which cost them dear.
Secretariat got all their three goals through Thimanna P.L., who converted from three penalty corners in the 14th minute, 39th minute and in the 66th minute. Bombay Republicans scored through Vikram Yadav’s penalty stroke conversion in the 20th minute, Kartik Sharma’s penalty corner in the 53rd minute and a field effort by Ganendrajit Ningombam in 60th minute.
Thimanna was declared ‘Man of the Match’ and received a cash award of Rs 1,000 from Ram Singh Rathor, MHAL Hon. Secretary.
Secretariat, who have two games in hand against Central Railway on Monday and Western Railway on Wednesday, now tally seven points from four games. Republicans have two points from four matches.
There will be no match on Sunday.
Results: Central Secretariat (Thimanna P.L. 14th, 39th, 66th) drew with Bombay Republicans 3 (Vikram Yadav 20th-PS, Kartik Sharma 53rd, Ganendrajit Ningombam 60th). Man of the match: Thimanna P.L. (Central Secretariat).
Monday schedule:
2.30 pm: Bombay Republicans vs Abhi Foundation.
4.00 pm: Central Railway vs Central Secretariat.