Centre of Excellence came back from a one-goal deficit and secured a 3-1 win over Pioneer Corps Training Centre to emerge triumphant in the State ‘A’ Division hockey league at the Karnataka State Hockey Association stadium here on Saturday.
CoE, who were down by a goal inside five minutes, then rallied to outplay PCTC. The Army team went into the lead through Lakra S in the fourth minute itself. But their joy was short-lived as five minutes later, Saad Nihal Wajid equalised for CoE.
CoE’s relentless pressure bore fruit as the winners shot into the lead for the first time in the match with Lakshman Karan finding the target in the 13th minute.
The score board remained unchanged in favour of CoE at 2-1 at the break. After the breather, CoE, who were breathing easy with a two-goal cushion, further increased the lead in the 37th minute. Vikram Kanth netted one this time to take his team to a much safer position and eventually the title.
PCTC’s Cyprian Aind emerged as the top scorer in the league.
CoE and PCTC also promoted to the Super Division for the next season.