In a thrilling Pro Kabaddi League encounter at the Patliputra Indoor Stadium in Patna on Monday, Haryana Steelers delivered a masterclass, clinching a vital 41-36 victory over Bengal Warriors and significantly boosting their playoff chances.
The contest began with both teams fiercely vying for control, resulting in a close scoreline of 8-9 midway through the opening half. However, it was the Haryana Steelers who managed to break the deadlock, surging ahead 16-12 on the back of impressive raiding displays from Vinay and Shivam Patare.
Seizing an opportunity to extend their lead, Haryana found Bengal Warriors down to just one player. Yet, Bengal’s skipper, Maninder Singh, turned the tables with a spectacular SUPER RAID, securing three crucial points. Shrikant Jadhav then followed it up with a fiery SUPER TACKLE on Shivam, allowing Bengal Warriors to take an 18-16 lead at halftime.
Despite beginning the second half with only three players, Haryana Steelers mounted a remarkable comeback. Siddharth Desai’s exceptional raiding prowess, earning four crucial points, led to an ALL OUT within four minutes, propelling Haryana to a 24-22 lead.
Siddharth continued to wreak havoc in the second half, achieving a Super 10 with a stylish multi-point raid. Shivam’s two-pointer further widened the gap as Haryana Steelers enforced their second ALL OUT in the 33rd minute, taking an 8-point lead at 37-29 with seven minutes remaining.
Despite a late surge from Bengal Warriors, with Maninder claiming a Super 10 and reducing Haryana to just two defenders, it proved too little too late. Haryana Steelers completed the double over Bengal Warriors, securing a well-deserved victory.
This commanding performance not only solidifies Haryana Steelers’ position in the playoffs race but also underscores their resilience and strategic brilliance on the kabaddi mat.
The Sportz Planet Desk
