Hockey India League match preview: Dabang Mumbai vs Ranchi Rays

Hero Hockey India League 2015 has started on a terrific note with goals galore in every match. Going by the first three games, it seems that this year the league is sure to be a closely contested affair between all the teams. Ranchi would be searching for their first win when they take on Dabang Mumbai in Mumbai today.

Ranchi Rays searching for first win

Ranchi Rays had an inauspicious start to their campaign as Lancers took them to the cleaners with a delightful performance. The former champions were at sixes and sevens at the back and conceded six goals which was a surprise as Ranchi is a team known for their solid defence.

Youngsters Manpreet, Lakra and Rohitdas all were at fault and had a bad day in office. The only positives for the team was the performance of their captain Ashley Jackson and his national teammate Barry Middleton. Both were superb upfront and got themselves on the scoresheet. Rays’ young guns need to click together and must put in a joint performance.

Dabang Mumbai look Impressive

The untested team was out in the open yesterday when they fired on all cylinders against the mighty Punjab Warriors. They dominated the possession and created plenty of chances.

Their star man was Chinglensana Singh whose brace earned a deserved draw for the team. Mumbai would definitely be expecting him to fire again and get the team going.

Tom Boon, Mumbai’s star forward would be itching to open his goal account against the Rays. Young Harmanpreet would again be shouldering the short corner responsibilty.

Prediction

Although the Mumbai outfit looks young and energetic, the Ranchi have the all needed experience to come out on top.