Highlights from second semifinal of the Hockey India League

The Jaypee Punjab Warriors’ defence worked like magic in the semifinal

The Jaypee Punjab Warriors cruised into the final of the Hockey India League with a convincing win over the Delhi Waveriders in the second semifinal of the evening. The Warriors were the ones who made all the running in the early stages of the game to seize control in the first quarter. Warriors were rewarded with a penalty corner in just the second minute. Sandeep Singh’s flick went wide much to the joy of Delhi fans. However, the joy was shortlived as Sandeep converted his second opportunity a couple of minutes later to go 1-0 up.

The Waveriders upped the ante and earned their first penalty corner. Rupinder Singh failed to level scores as Jaap Stockmaan made a superb save. Sardar Singh was looking his best as he made some amazing passes to Simon Child and Matt Gohdes. Rob Hammond who has retired from the game showed why he was one of the best holding midfielders in the world. Lucas Rey and Hammond were involved in an intriguing battle with Sardar.

Augustin Mazzilli was a serious threat to the Waveriders’ defence and goalkeeper Nicolas Jacobi was just about saving those close chances. However, Mazzilli was too good for the German as he doubled the lead in the 35th minute with a reverse-hand strike. S.V Sunil, Affan Yousuf, Chris Ciriello and Kieran Groven had very good games as they denied any oppportunity for Waveriders to get back into the contest.

The Waveriders take on the Uttar Pradesh Wizards for a third place playoff on Sunday.