Punjab Warriors get home support in HIL

Updated At : 07:17 AM Feb 10, 2017 IST

Punjab beat Ranchi by a solitary goal in their first home match at the Sector 42 stadium. Pradeep Tewari

Chandigarh, February 9

Punjab Warriors did not disappoint the small crowd that had assembled to support their team as they beat Ranchi Rays 1-0 in their first home game of the Hockey India League at the Sector 42 stadium. However, it was not their most convincing win. “I am satisfied with the result but not with our performance,” said Punjab Warriors captain Mark Knowles. Warriors coach Barry Dancer said he was not happy about the mistakes his players made, especially in attack, but said he was pleased by their courage. “Their courage in the last five minutes saved us in a match where the other team had more chances,” Dancer said. “We have to improve in our attack for the next match (against Dabang Mumbai on Saturday).”This was Punjab’s second close win in two matches, having beaten Delhi Waveriders 3-2 in Delhi on Tuesday. “For me as a player and as the leader of the team who has to motivate the players, to not play our best and still win is an encouraging sign,” Knowles said. “These are crucial five points and these wins will put more pressure on the opponents.”

“As I have said the competition in the league is much tougher than what it was last year. This year the junior players are bringing their forms from the junior World Cup. So it is getting tougher and these wins are crucial,” he added. It was a defensive match with few chances, and Punjab goalkeeper Tristan Clemons was named the Man of the Match for his incredible saves throughout the match. “We defended with 11 men right from the forwards back to me, so it was a team effort,” the Australian said. For Ranchi it was another disappointment, after their goalless draw with Uttar Pradesh Wizards, but coach Harendra Singh decided to see the brighter side. “This was one of our best performances. We created many chances, but we failed to convert them and paid the price. Captain Ashley Jackson said it was a disappointing result. “We played a good game, just didn’t take our chances. These sort of losses are disappointing But that stage hasn’t come yet, and I hope the boys can pull themselves up for the next match,” Jackson said. —TNS

Punjab Warriors get home support in HIL

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