BPCL XI beats Indian Railways enters semis

Chennai, Dec 22 (UNI) Thanks to two penalty stroke conversions by Prabhdeep Singh, BPCL XI derailed Indian Railways by an odd goal in three (2-1) to enter the semi-finals of the 83rd All India MCC-Murugappa Gold Cup Hockey Tournament here today.

In fact, it was the Railwaymen who moved ahead with the 26th minute goal by Raju, before BPCL, playing like a well-knit team, strung together the loose ends to end up with a deserving win.

Railways scored much against the run of play. A swift counter attack resulted in a goal with Raju providing the finishing touches, beating BPCL custodian Muttappa hands down.

But the lead was shortlived as BPCL neutralized it three minutes later. An obstruction on BPCL forward Ravi Naykar by Railways Goalkeeper P Fekerlo inside the striking zone resulted in a penalty stroke and Prabhdeep Singh converted it with ease.

Another penalty stroke at the stroke of half time following a stick check on Amar Aiyamma by Railway Defender Amarjit Singh helped BPCL gain a 2-1 lead.

Both the teams fought hard and Railways made some impressive moves. But they could not beat the organized BPCL defence where William Xalco and Ajay Sarona and Irshad Ali excelled.

BPCL, which had the better of exchanges, nearly stretched the lead but Hari Prasad bungled an easy chance with only goal keeper to beat.

His feeble push hit Fekerlo and the rebound too went abegging.

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