Lucknow : Delhi Waveriders overcame a strong challenge to defeat Uttar Pradesh Wizards 3-1 and register their second consecutive win in the Hockey India League (HIL) at the Major Dhyan Chand Stadium here on Saturday.
Experienced dragflicker Rupinder Pal Singh (42nd minute) and Steven Edwards (59th) scored for Delhi while Argentine Gonzalo Peillat (60th) reduced the margin for the hosts. Delhi have now moved to the top of the HIL table with 10 points. Uttar Pradesh Wizards meanwhile, have lost their second match in a row. They have won only one of the three matches they have played so far.
The first two quarters of the match saw the hosts taking control with a lot of penetrations into the Delhi circle. But the visitor’s strong defensive set-up kept the Wizards forwards at bay. The hosts had an upper hand with a higher ball possession but some beautiful saves from the Delhi Waveriders goalkeeper ensured that both teams moved into the latter half of the match with the score board reading 0-0.
The Wizards continued their attacking approach in the third quarter as well but Delhi started pressing on the counter and were rewarded with a penalty corner which was converted by Rupinder. Delhi were the more aggressive team in the fourth quarter and their efforts were soon rewarded when Edwards scored a field goal from a brilliant move. The hosts hit back in the very next minute – Peillat smashed home from a penalty corner.
Rupinder won the man of the match award of Rs.50,000 while fellow Delhi teammate Mandeep Singh received Rs.25,000 after being adjudged emerging player of the match. Edwards took home the goal of the match award while Australian veteran Jamie Dwyer of Uttar Pradesh Wizards was adjudged the most entertaining player of the match.
