The 2nd Swasth™ Masters League, a hockey extravaganza conducted by Hockey Tiruvallur, has reached its pinnacle as the league stage concluded in a flurry of intense matches. The Ramachandra Medical College grounds in Porur witnessed some scintillating hockey action on the 30th of September, setting the stage for the much-anticipated semi-finals. Here's a recap of the action-packed matches that unfolded on the last day of the league stage.
Madras Veterans vs. SM Nagar: A Fierce Battle
The first match of the day featured Madras Veterans (MV) taking on a determined SM Nagar (SM) team. Right from the start, it was evident that this would be a closely contested affair. The ball moved swiftly from end to end, with both teams displaying attacking intent.
Despite SM Nagar playing with just ten players, they held their own against Madras Veterans. Karthik from SM had a few promising opportunities but couldn't find the target, including a penalty corner where Ashok's shot was brilliantly saved by the MV goalkeeper. Dinesh also missed a chance from a resulting long corner.
On the other side, Madras Veterans missed two penalty corners and a shot from Saba sailed wide. In the dying moments of the first half, Viji from SM got dispossessed in a promising position.
Halftime Score: Madras Veterans 0 - 0 SM Nagar
The second half saw both teams pushing hard, with more focus on the midfield. Madras Veterans earned three penalty corners in quick succession but couldn't convert. Finally, V. Satheesh Kumar managed to break the deadlock with a goal from a penalty corner (1-0).
MV continued to press, and another penalty corner was saved by the SM Nagar goalkeeper. Ashraff of MV and Viji of SM missed opportunities in a counter-attack. In the dying minutes, Kumaravel sealed the deal with a field goal for MV (2-0).
Final Score: Madras Veterans 2 - 0 SM Nagar
Player of the Match: V. Satheesh Kumar, Madras Veterans
MATCH 2
Tamilnadu Veterans vs. Adambakkam Veterans: Battle of Titans
The second match of the day showcased a battle between two contenders teams, Tamilnadu Veterans (TNV) and Adambakkam Veterans (AV). Both teams were evenly matched and vying for the semi-final spot in the league, making this clash a must-watch.
The first half was characterized by an even balance, with both teams displaying their tactical prowess. AV started strong but failed to capitalize on their opportunities. TNV's Captain, Adam Sinclair, and Muthukumaran missed chances, and the score remained 0-0.
Halftime Score: Tamilnadu Veterans 0 - 0 Adambakkam Veterans
The second half witnessed more midfield play, but TNV managed to break the deadlock with Vaman scoring a field goal (1-0). AV earned three penalty corners but couldn't convert. In a counter-attack, Krishna of TNV scored another field goal (2-0).
Both sides launched attacks, but the scoreline favored TNV. Captain Adam Sinclair combined with his forwards to score a field goal (3-0). Vaman added another goal to his tally (4-0).
Final Score: Tamilnadu Veterans 4 - 0 Adambakkam Veterans
Player of the Match: Krishna (35), Tamilnadu Veterans
With the conclusion of the league stage, Madras Veterans claimed the top spot in Pool B, setting up a semi-final clash with Tamilnadu Veterans, who secured the second position in Pool B. SM Nagar, now in second place, will face the formidable Pool A leaders, Madurai Veterans, in the semi-finals on the 1st of October.
The league stage of the 2nd Swasth™ Masters League was a rollercoaster ride of hockey thrills, with unforgettable moments and performances that will be remembered for years to come. As the league enters its knockout stage, the excitement is palpable, and fans eagerly await the semi-finals and the ultimate crowning of the Swasth™ Masters League champion. Stay tuned for more heart-pounding hockey action!
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