2018 Kabaddi Federations Cup, Final: Services vs Karnataka, 5 Talking Points

Karnataka's resurgence

Shabeer Bapu played a crucial part in the Karnataka comeback. (Representational)

As Nitin Tomar scampered back into his own half to loud cheers from the crowd following a super raid, it seemed as if Karnataka had given up. The lead had swelled to 8-1 and the match was slowly slipping out of Karnataka's grasp.

However, Sukesh Hegde had other ideas. Four points in a matter of just minutes reduced the huge 14-5 lead to just 15-9 at half-time which also proved to be a much-needed break for Karnataka.

Post the break, they seemed a livelier bunch, with an extra spring in their step. A sense of complacency hit Services as the score-line soon read 16-13. Sukesh Hegde continued his good form and collected two more points before a strong tackle on Monu Goyat saw Karnataka level scores with just over ten minutes to go in the game.